<p>There’s no magic formula.</p>
<p>Obviously, you want to do well on standardized tests. If you can distinguish yourself by being an Olympic-caliber athlete, an accomplished scientist (author of peer-reviewed articles), a published author, a successful business entrepreneur, a gifted musical performer, a highly skilled computer programmer, etc., then that would definitely help. “Quirky” interests help, too.</p>
<p>To give you an idea about the kind of person that ends up matriculating at Harvard, I’ll profile the group of girls who lived above us in our freshman dorms. One girl was an Asian American from the Midwest who was a gifted violinist. She was recruited to Julliard, but turned it down to attend Harvard. She could play anything she heard once…on her violin. We used to listen to the radio and have her play some of the latest pop songs. Another girl was the reigning women’s champion chess player in Iceland. Another girl was an Egyptian who attended Phillips-Exeter Academy and was very involved in cultural activities. Her “thing” was bellydancing. The last roommate was an Hispanic American from the West Coast who was deeply committed to community service. All of the roommates were very bright, took multiple AP courses, and did very well on standardized tests.</p>
<p>I’d recommend not padding your resume full of activities so that you look good on paper. As others have mentioned, participate in extracurricular activities that you find interesting…and hold leadership positions in those clubs/activities. If your high school doesn’t have a club that matches your interest, get together with some like-minded students and form a new club. “Depth, not breadth” is very good advice.</p>
<p>Harvard has an impressive array of resources for its students. The admissions committee puts together a student body that will make the best use of those resources.
Applicants, who make the best use of what their schools/communities have to offer, are viewed favorably. Academically, this might mean taking several AP classes, doing the IB curriculum, or taking courses at the local college.</p>
<p>I think the wrong attitude for a high school kid to adopt is a “Harvard or bust” attitude. There is an arbitrary element to the college admission process, so don’t get your feelings hurt if a certain college doesn’t grant you an acceptance. Be yourself. Do interesting things that make you happy. You’ll end up at a great college and have a wonderful experience.</p>