<p>would it be academics (GPA/test scores) or extracurriculars/essay? i know they look at each applicant holistically but there has to be one element that the adcom values above the others... right?</p>
<p>I don’t know if I am in the standpoint of giving any comment since I was admitted through the waitlist 
But I would say the most important part is the “Why Wellesley” essay, in which they can truly see your passion towards Wellesley. Personally, my test score isnt good at all (I only got 1910 in SAT after 3 sittings…:S), so I guess they pay more attention to your other activities 
Well, actually I am not so sure since I’m an international student…but I hope this helps! :)</p>
<p>I was admitted ED and if I had to pick… the essays are definitely THE MOST important part of your application. </p>
<p>As I have previously mentioned in other threads, almost everyone applying to Wellesley are well qualified in terms of test scores, GPA, and extracurriculars, so the only way you can stand out is through your essays. On the Common App essay, make sure you let them know who you are as a learner and what your personal qualities are through whichever topic you choose to write about. Don’t pick a generic event like winning a race or getting an award. Though winning something is great, many people write about the same thing. Rather, for example, write about a PROCESS of something you’ve accomplished and the dilemmas/challenges you’ve faced, and show analysis in your own actions/faults/success. Those are the things that show the admission people what kind of student and person you are. </p>
<p>For the “Why Wellesley” essay, don’t just let them know why you’re excited about Wellesley and what it can help you achieve. Also let Wellesley know how YOU will contribute to their community. Because in the end, they don’t just want someone who is qualified for Wellesley; they want someone who will actually flourish there.</p>
<p>Good luck!!</p>
<p>Agreed with SinFused! I got in via RD, and I definitely think the essays were the most important. Don’t slack on the CommonApp essay either-- make sure you let the Wellesley admissions officers know exactly who you are! I’m gonna’ repeat what SinFused said too-- in Why Wellesley, let them know how you would contribute to W, and how you feel you fit in. In fact, I’d say emphasize this, rather than how W would help you.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>How could I emphasize my contributions to Wellesley in the essay without sounding arrogant or bragging?</p>
<p>Thanks so much!</p>
<p>The contributions that you WILL have don’t have to be giant, crazy things like publishing a amazing paper or winning awards but rather small things like starting a club or participating in conferences would be great. Just contributions that will show how you plan to be involved in the community as a whole and how excited you are to be involved :)</p>
<p>Basically, make it a personalized essay-- bring out who you are in the essay. What kind of personality you have, what you have done with regards to your interests and how that would bring a new perspective to W, your background, how comfortable you feel at Wellesley (if you’ve visited). The adcoms already know all about W, so don’t tout the school too much; tell them who you are, and how well you fit in.</p>
<p>I agree your essays should be highly personalized, and truthful…also send in some very good rec letters from people who really know and like you</p>