<p>Ok, so I've been doing the typical "take rigorous classes and do well on AP tests and SATs." I know I am on the right track with that so I wont bother everyone with test scores and GPAs. However, I know that alone wont secure me a place in an Ivy League school. I keep hearing that you have to "stand out" to get into Yale, or any Ivy League school for that matter. So, what would Yale consider standing out? It seems like someone can have all the academic awards and recognition anyone could ever want and still be told that he or she isn't good enough.</p>
<p>So here I am, going into 11th grade this fall. I've played the cello for 6 years and am a fairly good varsity swimmer. I'm asking myself the same thing that I'm sure a lot of people are. How do I stand out? And even if I did, lets say, do really well at state this year, would it even be considered "standing out"?</p>
<p>write a book, go on an exchange program, have a rich uncle donate money =)</p>
<p>From the vantage point of an alumni interviewer, I think having recognition at the national level for some activity helps you stand out, although it is by no means a guarantee for admission. Obviously, not all extracurriculars allow you to compete nationally, but music, sports, debate and many others do.</p>
<p>Having a book published (not just having written one), founding a charity (like starting a soup kitchen that has been up and running for a couple years, not just something small in your school or with your church), having successfully accomplished something in the world of business that is highly unusual for a high schooler (not just having your own company where you made a few thousand dollars), these are the types of activities that stand out.</p>
<p>Lots of people who are admitted to schools like Yale do not have these types of credentials and many who have these credentials are denied admission. But you asked about standing out and the above gives you a flavor for stand out activities.</p>
<p>"Standing out" doesn't have to involve something done on a national level. As long as you can write a unique essay that NO ONE else could have written, you'll have stood out. Now, I don't mean something boring about your favorite goldfish, but rather something from a unique experience.</p>
<p>So, you have to have something unique, but it doesn't have to be a national award or anything spectacular.</p>