How to Get Into Stanford in 5 Minutes

Summary

This video discusses strategies for crafting a standout Stanford application. It highlights the importance of personalizing your essays by mentioning Stanford's unique programs, schools, and opportunities. For essays like the 'Dear Future Roommate' prompt, the video suggests showing your personality by focusing on two or three unique qualities and how you'd connect with your roommate. Most importantly, Stanford values applicants who have already made an impact in their communities and can demonstrate leadership through tangible actions. The key to success is to show how you have executed your ideas and how Stanford will help you further your goals.

Takeaways

• 😀 Getting into Stanford is easier if you focus on specific programs and opportunities unique to the university.
• 🎓 Stanford has three main undergraduate schools: School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences, School of Engineering, and School of Humanities & Sciences.
• 🌐 Stanford offers over 65 majors, many of which are interdisciplinary, such as Urban Studies, Aeronautics & Astronautics, and Global Studies.
• 📚 Research institutes like the Haas Center for Public Service allow students to combine study with community service.
• ✍️ When writing the Stanford supplemental essay, personalize your response by mentioning specific programs and how you would contribute to them.
• 😄 The 'Dear Future Roommate' essay should showcase your personality and how you'd fit in at Stanford, with a focus on a few personal quirks or qualities.
• 🕵️‍♂️ The key to answering Stanford's essay questions is understanding the purpose of each prompt and being authentic, especially for the 'Dear Roommate' essay.
• 🚀 Stanford admissions officers are looking for students who dream big, lead, and have already made a meaningful impact in their community.
• 🌲 Demonstrating actual accomplishments is crucial – for example, one student got in by discussing a project where he replanted 5,000 trees in a forest.
• 🔑 Stanford values creativity, leadership, and a proven ability to execute ideas, as reflected in their mission statement: 'contribute to the world, advance knowledge, and lead in research.'

Q & A

What is the key strategy to make your Stanford application stand out?

To make your Stanford application stand out, it's essential to mention specific academic programs, majors, and opportunities unique to Stanford, and explain how you would actively contribute to them. Personalizing your essay to reflect your unique journey and interests is also crucial.

Why is it important to mention Stanford's specific majors and programs in your application?

Mentioning Stanford’s specific majors and programs shows that you have done thorough research and are genuinely interested in what Stanford offers. It demonstrates how well you would fit into the academic environment and how you plan to engage with its unique opportunities.

What are some examples of unique academic opportunities at Stanford?

Stanford offers interdisciplinary majors across three schools: the School of Earth, Energy and Environmental Sciences, the School of Engineering, and the School of Humanities and Sciences. Additionally, there are 15 research institutes, such as the Haas Center for Public Service, which allows students to study government and engage in community service simultaneously.

How should you approach Stanford’s ‘Dear Future Roommate’ essay?

The ‘Dear Future Roommate’ essay should focus on revealing your personality and how you would fit into the Stanford community. Instead of bragging about achievements, write about personal quirks or qualities and connect them to activities you could share with your future roommate. Writing as if you're talking to a friend is key.

What mistake do applicants commonly make when writing the ‘Dear Future Roommate’ essay?

A common mistake is using the essay to either brag about achievements or writing with no filter, like a diary entry. The real goal is to show your personality in a way that connects to your future roommate, revealing aspects of how you'd interact on a personal level.

Why is it important to ‘dream, make, and do’ when applying to Stanford?

Stanford values applicants who have not only envisioned big ideas but have also taken action to bring those ideas to life. It’s important to demonstrate past accomplishments that align with making a tangible impact in your community and show how you will build upon them using Stanford's unique resources.

What does Stanford look for in terms of leadership in applicants?

Stanford looks for applicants who have already made a meaningful impact in their communities. Leadership at Stanford is about taking initiative and contributing to the world by applying knowledge, creativity, and a drive for innovation.

How can personal experiences help improve a Stanford application essay?

Personal experiences can make your essay more authentic and engaging. By connecting your unique story, interests, and past contributions to Stanford's offerings, you not only stand out but also show how Stanford will help you continue to grow and make an impact.

What should you avoid when writing your Stanford essays?

Avoid writing solely about your achievements or being overly generic. It’s important to be specific about how you would engage with Stanford’s academic and social environment. Don’t just describe your vision—provide evidence that you’ve already begun executing it.

What are the key components of a strong Stanford application, according to the video?

A strong Stanford application should highlight specific academic opportunities at Stanford, demonstrate how you will contribute to them, and show leadership by providing examples of how you've already made an impact. Your essays should be personal, engaging, and reflective of your unique character and journey.