"state Champion" vs "2nd at state"

when writing about ECs, it just seems that saying u are state champion, national champion, sounds much better than “2nd at state” or “2nd at nationals”, how would this be interpreted by colleges? Would they find a big difference between 1st and 2nd, even though being the champion sounds much better?

Are you thinking about lying about your placement?

@usualhopeful no? When did I imply I would?

State/national runner-up, silver medalist, etc. may sound better than 2nd at state. It’s a well-earned achievement and not one that colleges will frown upon.

Agreed, runner up is more appropriate than saying champion. Colleges will still look very favorably on being a runner up because it is an honor too.

@eltoreador I didn’t think so, but I wasn’t quite sure the point of the question (obviously #1 is better than #2) and people on this site do ask some ridiculous and occasionally unethical things.