Hi, if you read from my path chance me’s, I really don’t have a hook or anything super special about my ec’s and I want to at least get into OSU. help? Advice?
You seem like you’re doing really well in HS, with good rigor. Ohio State admits around 50% and you seem on track to be well above median. Why are you so worried? Yes, look for ways to increase depth, continuity, and distinctiveness of your EC’s, but not to the extent of trying to mold yourself into someone you’re not. You are already working really hard - I’m sure the restaurant work takes quite a bit of time on top of a heavy course load - and you have some interesting creative pursuits like the poetry blog. Start thinking about how you can harness that creativity for college essays. When you’re more of a “rich inner life” person than a “president of every dang thing” person, it’s important to think of ways to give AO’s a glimpse of that inner life through your writing. (And some colleges will let you submit supplemental writing samples, portfolios, etc.) And on the drudgery side of things, prep for the ACT, because a higher score will help a lot.
But you don’t have to be somebody you’re not, in order to get into college. You will have plenty of good options if you keep going the way you’re going.
You are your own hook. Perform as well as you can academically, earn good test scores and complete applications,completely, neatly and accurately. Pay attention to deadlines. Be sure you can read fluently with good comprehension practice writing until it comes easily such as responding to questions in books, other applications, wherever the chance arises.
Many people who have a strong application in terms of academics and ECs don’t have a hook or anything really unusual. OSU accepts plenty of students like this. When you prepare your application focus on what you HAVE done and put that in the best light.
I wouldn’t worry. OSU is pretty easy to get into, considering the quality of the education it offers. Since you’re doing plenty of IBs, that should make you an attractive candidate. What could really help is your essays and supplements. Try asking your English teachers for help on yours; mine was strong on it’s own, but with edits from my teachers, my essay was outstanding. Try and let them know a little about you, and I guarantee you’ll get in.