How to write the midyear update that gets you to Harvard
So you’ve sent your applications to Harvard, Princeton, Stanford, and other Ivy League schools. You’re anxiously waiting to hear back and nervous about the result. Some of you may have been waitlisted after Early Action and are really worried about your chances.
I know what exactly how you feel – awhile back, I applied to 6 Ivies including Harvard. Luckily, I was accepted to them all – Princeton, Harvard, Columbia, and others. After college, I worked in a college admissions office of a Top 20 school. I know your anxiety.
Here’s what you MUST DO when sending a mid-year update to the school of your dreams that can push you over the top.
1) Don’t send more than 3-4 high-quality pages detailing REAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS since your full application. Did you become President of a major club at school? Include. Did you break several district and state records in baseball? Include. Did you raise $500 for a weekend outing with the Cooking Club? Do not include
2) Do not, under any circumstances, send more teacher recommendations unless specifically asked. I know how badly you want to impress admissions committees. But sending too much information at this point WILL HURT YOU. Don’t do it – even if that teacher rec is touching and memorable. AdComs will be irritated that you were so pushy
3) Only send additional portfolio work if it’s professional quality. For instance, if you wrote a 25 page research paper on the Downfall of the Roman Empire, only include that report if you’re either SPECIFICALLY ASKED, or if that report was published in a major, professional publication. Do not include it just because your History Teacher gave you an A+
4) This is your last chance to make an impression that can define whether you get a fat acceptance packet or the dreaded “no” letter. I would make sure what you submit is high-quality, error-free, and focuses HEAVILY ON YOUR RESULTS. Let your work speak for itself
Most people think the Mid-year report/Mid-year update is simply grades and a form for the counselor. But it’s a great opportunity to showcase how you’ve improved over time, and to give Admissions Committees the little bump that may put you over the edge.
Good luck, students and parents!
