Hi guys, so I’m a junior in high school and i have an interest in Rice. So i was wondering what can i do too boost my chances on getting in besides grades since i had a good friend who had a 4.0 GPA and a 34 on the ACT who got denied ED. So what does rice exactly look for? what are some things i can do too shine in my app? Some things i do is play basketball and golf, design apps, in School newspaper and other clubs, and volunteer at the hospital. I sound really basic, so how can i shine in the college app?
First of all, it’s worth noting that while the college admission process involves group reviews of applications and serious care, it’s not an exact science. Admissions officers really have to split hairs, so there’s no telling why your friend wasn’t admitted, but it could have just been a hunch! On to you. Those activities all sound great. Your essay should focus as little as possible on the what and as much as possible on the why. They can see what you’ve done, but they want to know who you are. I recommend grabbing a book about college essay writing if you’re really serious. They’re useful because they point out things NOT to do. But don’t try to condense it to something formulaic; it should be creative, but it doesn’t need to be groundbreaking! It just needs to really show them what makes you tick and what makes you someone who Rice wants! People here aren’t geniuses. They’re friendly, happy, and inspired hard workers
Are you currently at Rice now? And what are some college essay books you recommend? Thanks! 
Yup! I’m a junior CS major. And On Writing the College Application Essay seems to be pretty popular. I don’t actually remember which one I used when I did it, but something with examples and general advice is good. Just don’t take the examples too literally! Obviously you want to make it your own.