How to get into Bowdoin College

Summary

This video offers detailed guidance on how to approach the Bowdoin College application process. Key points include submitting an optional video response to showcase personality, considering an optional interview to add a personal touch, and using the additional information section to upload an unabridged extracurricular resume. The speaker emphasizes the importance of presenting a well-rounded picture of yourself beyond grades and test scores, highlighting the significance of the video and interview as opportunities to stand out. Additionally, advice is provided on building a strong extracurricular resume to further differentiate your application.

Takeaways

• 😀 Bowdoin College offers an optional video response after submitting your application, allowing you to answer a random question in 30 seconds to two minutes.
• 😀 The video response is an opportunity to showcase your personality beyond your application, but it's recommended only if you feel comfortable on camera.
• 😀 If you're self-conscious about appearing on video, it's okay to skip the optional video response, but most students should participate.
• 😀 Once you submit a video response, you can delete it and re-record it once, but after that, the second video is final.
• 😀 It's important to submit the video response as soon as possible after submitting your application, as it adds a personal dimension to your profile.
• 😀 Bowdoin offers optional interviews either on-campus or with alumni, and it’s recommended for serious applicants to take advantage of this opportunity.
• 😀 The optional interview allows you to add a face to your application, ask questions, and engage in a meaningful conversation with the interviewer.
• 😀 If you're an artist, you can submit an optional art supplement to further differentiate yourself, even if you don't plan to major in art.
• 😀 Bowdoin allows an additional upload of a detailed extracurricular resume in the Common App supplement, which can enhance your application.
• 😀 Craig Meister recommends submitting a full, unabridged extracurricular resume to provide more depth on your accomplishments beyond your transcript.
• 😀 Craig offers a course on building a strong extracurricular resume, which can be a valuable resource for students looking to stand out in the application process.

Q & A

What is the optional video response for Bowdoin College, and why is it important?

The optional video response is a chance for applicants to showcase their personality and communication skills by answering a random question on camera. It provides a more personal and human dimension to your application, allowing the admissions team to see you beyond just your grades and test scores.

What are some common questions asked in Bowdoin’s optional video response?

Common questions include personal prompts like 'What's the best thing that has happened to you in the last year?' or 'How would you like to spend your birthday?' These questions are meant to highlight your individuality and personal interests.

Should all applicants take part in the optional video response?

Yes, most applicants should participate, especially if they are comfortable speaking on camera. However, if you feel self-conscious or anxious about how you will appear or behave on camera, it might be best to skip it to avoid added stress.

How many times can applicants re-record their video response?

Applicants can re-record the video once. If you are not satisfied with your first response, you can delete it and answer a second question. However, you cannot delete the second response, so it’s important to be sure before submitting.

What is the significance of Bowdoin College’s optional interview, and who can participate?

The optional interview is an opportunity to provide a face-to-face element to your application, which can help admissions get to know you better. You can interview either on-campus or remotely with an alum. It is strongly recommended for applicants serious about Bowdoin, as it can strengthen your application.

What should applicants do if they are nervous about the interview?

If you're nervous, it's important to prepare by researching the school, practicing common interview questions, and being ready to ask thoughtful questions in return. The interview is meant to be a conversation, not a formal test.

What is an art supplement, and should all applicants submit one?

An art supplement is an optional submission where you can share your artistic work with the admissions team. This is only relevant for applicants who have significant artistic achievements, and submitting one is not necessary unless you are an artist or wish to showcase creative talent.

How can applicants take advantage of the optional upload section in Bowdoin’s Common App supplement?

Bowdoin allows applicants to upload a more detailed extracurricular resume in the optional upload section of the supplement. This is a chance to elaborate on your activities, accomplishments, and experiences that aren't fully captured in the Common App activities section.

What are some tips for creating a strong extracurricular resume for Bowdoin’s application?

A strong extracurricular resume should include a detailed account of all your extracurricular activities, focusing on your roles, achievements, and impact. You should aim to show both the depth and breadth of your involvement since the summer before ninth grade.

Why is it beneficial to submit an unabridged extracurricular resume to Bowdoin?

Submitting a full extracurricular resume helps Bowdoin’s admissions team better understand your achievements and the range of your involvement. It provides a more comprehensive picture of who you are, going beyond the brief descriptions in the Common App activities section.