Hi everyone! In this recorded live webinar, we go through each section of the Common App and the strategies you can use to maximize your college application. You can also sign up for a free 20-minute consultation with Bullseye Admissions here: bit.ly/freetrialfromiris
Hi Iris! I am an international student and i feel a little bit confused about the honors section in common app:/ Should i add my national exam ranking and math olympiad ranking in the activities section or honors section? Bc we do not have honors classes in Turkey... Btw thanks for the video💘
How will I be able to submit teacher recommendations? I think there is a tab about recommendations for each school. If I want to ask two teachers, how do I apply them to all schools on common app? Thank you, love your videos!
I’m so glad I watched this because I’ve done almost all the questions for Stanford and thanks to you I’ve saved all my essays in my notes so I can fill them out again after 8/1. Thank youuu
I know you mean well but man every time you post a college admissions related video, my heart drops because I haven't even started preparing for this upcoming college admission season 😩
oh no I don't mean to stress you out!! (also i typed this response earlier lol idk why it didn't post, but here it is again :) i justed wanted to say that i hope you just watch my vids for guidance, and never for stress. if you find that they're not good for your mental health then maybe skip watching them? and only watch them when you actually start working on your apps are finding that u need that extra help/guidance. pls take care and remember that you got this and can do anything you set your mind to!
Hey iris loving it but I have 2 suggestions I’d love to see 1. How to get/run for leadership positions and differences between elected/appointed/accoades/recognition 2. How to “fancy word”/“sugarcoat” the EC description Like instead of I am a debate offericer and I compete in regional tournaments Becomes I am the 2nd in command of XY HS debate squad and I have done list duty and have competed at state and high level of competition such as out of state regional tournaments. Still thank you for being this resource
I’m sorta confused about the recommendations, do my teachers see which schools I’m submitting their recommendation for or do they just submit it to the portal and then I choose which school each letter goes to? I’m just worried because I’m applying to quite a few schools for financial reasons and I don’t want them to get annoyed at having to submit their letter to so many different schools.
they just submit it to the portal and then you choose which school each letter goes to. i think your counselor (and maybe your teachers) get to see your entire school list, but they won't know which schools you're picking to send their recs to. and no! they just submit it once to your common app portal, and then you submit the letter for them every time you submit an application. the letter is attached to your application, and you choose which letter to attach. i know this might be a bit confusing so just lmk if you want any clarifications!
@@irisfu6929 hey Iris! when should we ask our teachers for recommendations? I asked a few teachers already (right after remote learning ended) but I held off on asking a teacher because I wanted to wait for my ap scores to come out. Now that the scores have came out, I want to ask her for a rec but I'm not sure if I should ask her right now, since I don't want to interrupt her summer schedule D:
I believe that the common app activites section is actually limited to 150 characters and the awards/honors section is limited to 100. Great video though!
Hey Iris. Your videos are very helpful. I had some questions: 1) How do I select what to put in the activity section and what in the honours and award section for my ECAS? 2)Should I put information about any internships in the activity section?
1) I made a video on this! Check out the "how to find your spike" and the worksheet linked in the description there -- it will help you narrow down / select for just 10 activities for your application 2) yes, you should!
Please use the space below to provide details about the change in progression through secondary/high school that you indicated above.* What to fill in this form???
Wonderful video! This is exactly what I needed. Also, in terms of admission to competitive schools, how much do you think alumni interviews matter? Or your teacher recommendations? I'm curious because while ECs and your essay demonstrate your passion and your perception of yourself (self-awareness), are admissions officers more into how others (teachers & interviewer) perceive you? (sorry its long lol, just wondering)
So glad to hear that! i don't think the alumni interview matters at all -- it's more like a red flag check, so as long as u don't bomb it by doing something stupid, you're fine. i didn't get into the schools where my interviews went super well and got into others where i feel like the interview was meh or where i didn't have one at all. overall, i think everything comes together as a whole package, (but if u watch my harvard rating video tho i did find that in harvard's reading procedures extracurriculars and academics are considered most heavily)
Hey Iris, for your passion project SeeTheVoices, was it an organization? And...does something have to be registered by the government to be regarded as an "organization" or can someone just call it that (e.g. - I am starting an engineering/cs society that partners with elementary schools to go around and give talks to students. Will that count as an organization?)?
it was an org, but it doesn't have to be registered to be considered as an org. If it's registered, it'd be either a nonprofit or business. I would just call it an initiative or organization!
@@ayanmohamed9683 the webinars are free. just sign up with bullseye and you'll get email of webinars. No need to pay for their services (somewhat expensive imo) to get any info.
Last question! I swear. I’m doing independent research during quarantine. I plan to finish my report in about a month! How would I even go about getting that published? Should I do more research into prestigious magazines? Does it still count as being published if I create my own website and just use it as a scientific journal? I’m asking about the create my own website part because I saw that in one of your videos I saw your website and it was very nice and I also saw PUBLISHED on like July something. ❤️🧡💛💚💜💙. Amazing video!!! I’m going to the 9th grade btw.
Nice! Congrats on almost finishing your report! So obviously, there’s gonna be diff levels of “prestige” with diff journals. I still think publishing on your website is pretty impressive, but if you can get it in Nature or something that’d be a jaw dropper. Overall, just do your best and see what comes your way!
Hiii so I’m going to be a sophomore student in high school and I’m planning to create a passion project, but I don’t know what to begin with. pls helppp
As Iris Fu mentioned in her last videos, a passion project is creating something that YOU are passionate about and it makes it more unique if YOU come up with your ideas! You got this!
Great Job on the video! It definitely helps as a junior who wants to try to apply to college. I just have a quick question, what year of graduation did select on the common app when you applied your junior year.
Hi Iris, I found your channel a few days ago and found it really helpful! I had a question about submitting a website portfolio. Would it be ok to submit a link of my website portfolio in the additional info section and then describe briefly?
Hey. Could you doa video on students who have taken a gap year and are applying again? If you know any international students who have done that... It will be super helpful.
Thank you so much for such a helpful video 💕 I will be applying in 2 more years!!! Btw, if all of my extracurriculars only relate to business ( join a business club, get business internship, teach finance,... ) do you think they are too boring and not diverse? 🥺
Hi! So I’m planning to write a book aimed at kids around grades 4-9 who are apathetic about school. It’s basically a young adult/advice book but written in a casual and personal tone based on my experiences as a low income student who found success through education. I have two options: self-publishing via Amazon KPD or try to get a literary agent. My professor (who’s an author) says some people can get an agent’s attention/interest with Op-Ed pieces, so that’s what I’m trying to do (I’ve already got one!). This may be my only chance as a high schooler without experience. If I go with self-publishing, I’m wondering what you think is the best option for editing the book once I finish it. I don’t have the finances to pay editors nor anyone around me willing to edit an entire book. Should I ask writing professors or what do you recommend? Also, if you have suggestions on modifying my idea for the book PLEASE let me know! I’m gonna start it with a personal intro, then address the readers’ apathy to school, then discuss the problems with the education system, then explain why education is still valuable and why they should pursue the subjects that interest them, then offer my story, and finally have a last chapter where I explain what to do and not do. I should note that the book will be very colloquial as I’m addressing middle grade kids who generally don’t like reading, doing homework, learning, etc. I’m gonna do research (ofc!) for the parts in the education system but everything will be “dumbed down” so to speak. Thanks SO MUCH for your help!! Your videos are a literal godsend for people like me and I’m so happy and grateful to be subscribed to you! :)
Nice work! I’d recommend asking professors or teachers to edit if you’re self publishing. For the structure, I’d suggest starting with your story to draw readers in an help them make a personal connection with you, then go into the system and more technical stuff. This is kind of similar to the structure of man’s search for meaning, where the author had pt. 1 as a personal narrative and pt. 2 as the research he found that’s related to his narrative. This is all completely just my suggestion. I think the structure you stated would work well too, but that was just my two cents. Good luck!!
In your common app, the activity description was limited to 150 characters but in the powerpoint it said 250, did the common app change the character limit this year? Also, is there a way to include media in the application-- a website link (that's clickable), a pdf resume, a video, etc?
Question: So if you’re applying to say like 11 schools and you pick a recommender, will they have to do 11 recommendations or do they send the same one to each school?
hello iris it’s really informative and really nice of you to share these tips! really appreciate it❤️ however, i want to ask the max limit of course i can report is 15, however, i took 19 courses during my junior year( im an international student)and i have no idea how i should fill out this part.
This is an amazing video describing almost everything. It made me stress free literally. Please tell me Can I apply for Phd with common app application?
your video is wonderful:) It provides a lot of useful info for uni application. I wish i have seen this video when i have been applying college this year. As i am a senior from Hong Kong this year, I have very limited knowledge how the uni application work in the US. I got rejected from stanford and I wanna try again next year. Should i apply as a freshman again or should i do the transfer? Is being a transfer stands very little chance of being admitted compared with as a freshman?
Really happy to hear that the video was helpful! Are you currently in university or taking a gap year? If you enrolled in a uni as a full time student, then you have to apply as a transfer. Otherwise, you can apply again as a freshman. Either could work, but the freshman acceptance rate is higher. I’m posting a video on transferring to Stanford soon tho so stay tuned for that as well and lmk if u have more questions!
I go to a small high school. Do you think it’s necessary to give them a recommendation letter template since it’s so small and they know me very well? Could I just tell them in person? I don’t want them to think I’m pretentious.
Hi thank you for this helpful video! I started doing the things I like in junior year because I had family responsibilities in freshman and sophomore year. Is this something I can put in additional because I don't want to come off as not dedicated.
Yes, there definitely is! You can put it in add info as a learning/growth experience. Also, check this out: static1.squarespace.com/static/5b7c56e255b02c683659fe43/t/5ef9bf0b67d0746239a5b429/1593425675919/FINAL+Statement_+TTT+Deans+20200629.pdf
Hi this video is so helpful 👍 Question: is it bad that I don’t really have any leadership positions? Will it affect my application if I didn’t join any clubs
One question: Can I put one thing same in honour and activities? What's the main diff? Is it about winning prizes? Wpuld lobe if you explain about that
As an international student, i always think that how are they gonna know if i am being true about participating in a competition? I can name so mamy state competition that never existed.
Hi Iris! I loved this video! I have a question regarding creating a new email for the common app. Does the email I used for my college board account have to be the same as my common app email?
Can we state how selective our awards in descriptions of the activities section? Like saying, “my quiz bowl team qualified for nationals, where the top 20 teams out of the 800 that compete qualify”?
Iris Fu thanks for the reply! I also had another question that I left on your other video- there’s the thing I’m genuinely passionate about, but the process of starting a whole nonprofit organization is too pricey and long, especially since I’m applying this year. Will it suffice if I do a fundraiser for it?
Hey Iris, I saw on your website it says "2020 Global Teen Leader Nominee," were you selected but opted out of the program? I'm a 2020 GTL and it would've been amazing to meet you!
@@irisfu6929 oh dang would've been super cool to see you there! They basically converted the week-long summit into 7 weeks as a sort of virtual summer program and promised to hold the physical summit when it was safe.
I feel late here. I'm a transfer student and my application is asking for activities done from X date to the term of application I'm applying for at a University. Problem was the main reason I didn't apply earlier was due to Covid going around and trying to be precautious. What activities would I really list down here for this? I practically did nothing noteworthy.
not sure if you are still answering questions, but you mentioned in the video that we should not fill out things until august 1 because common app refreshes. Does that include personal questions such as family, coursework, etc?
Yes, I think so. I'm not 100% sure about this, but I would go on the safe side and just put all of you responses in a Google Doc, so you can copy and paste into the portal after 8/1
Hey! apologies if someone asked this in the Q&A but, do we have to report all of our AP scores? I did some research online, and most of them said we self report them so we can exclude the bad scores (2s and 3s) from the testing section. However, those responses are from years ago, and I'm not sure if rules have changed. Thank you so much for sharing this webinar! I couldn't catch a few things in the actual webinar so this is great :)
For the additional information section in the writing section, could I explain that I got a C in one class because the teacher had to suddenly leave since he got in an accident and I had a hard time adjusting to getting multiple substitutes? That's the only grade I have received in high school that isn't an A. I just don't want to make it sound like I'm blaming it on the teacher or anything.
definitely - to frame it in a positive light, consider adding one sentence or phrase about what you learned/how that experience help you in future experiences
Just wondering, what spot on your EC list did you put writing your book? Do you think I would have enough time to fully publish my book if I started writing it spring of junior year?
I put it on 2nd or 3rd I think! I started writing my book June after my junior year and finished by September. Other subscribers have also told me that they've finished their book (and it's only been 3 months since I started this channel!) so yes, you def have enough time. go for it!!!
but do keep in mind though that in June I spent a week working on my book legit 10 hours a day, so I think it's in large part due to a lot of time that opens up in the summer
Hey, Iris. Thank you so much. You really helped me! But I also have a silly question) What do I need to put in "ED Signature" when I apply to early decision university? Just my full name or I have to do anything else?
Considering most schools are test optional should I still submit my first time act score of 23 even though I havent had a chance to retake it to make it better? Also, can I choose which schools to send my act score to and which schools I dont send my act score to? (I'm applying to some colleges and some music conservatories which have always been test optional)
If you get rejected EA and are being considered RD, would make changes on the common app result in the AOs knowing. I remember you mentioned that there would be a pdf sent to them, is this right?
Hey Iris! I have been watching videos from your channel since your college reactions post. Many people are telling me that I should build a good relationship with my college admissions officer for my dream school. Do you have experience doing that and if so do they just mean emailing them with questions?
I did that the first time I was applying, and I don't think it did anything LOL. The admissions officer also changed for my second time applying. I don't think the relationship beforehand will matter at all -- they literally email so many students, and will admit you based on your application (essays, activities, academics, etc). Don't stress too much about emailing them for the sake of emailing bc it honestly feels a bit contrived
Hello. Please help me. In some Yoube videos I have heard about general CommonApp essay and Harvard specific essay. Do I have to write TWO essays if I am applaying to Harvard, I really don't understand. I also have heard that you have to write 50-words message about why you choose Harvard, is that is Harvard specific essay?
there’s this scholarship foundation that I got nominated for but i have to do early decision but can I still also apply to normal to other schools and if I get rejected to my ed then what?
You can apply at the same time - but you just submit it as regular decision (eg the deadlines for RD will likely be all 1/1, but you can submit it earlier)
where do I find the decision that a college makes whether I got in or not if I applied on the common app, if its on their website do i need to go make an account for each college website to access it?
It’s basically a section where you get to list five, honors. Anything can be an honor, from meeting a famous person to being the top of your class - hope this helps but lmk if u have follow up questions!
Hey, I can use a lil help So I just finished one of my applications does anyone know if I can like use the same info on the application for another one Like ur address, education and all that?
Hello I’m wondering so like I applied to Arizona State University with the common app and i was wondering if the common app gives us the asu id or the asurite id
I think you’d get a separate email after sending in your application with your ID. I’ve never applied to ASU so I’m not 100% sure, but this was the process for other schools I applied to
Hey Iris, if my school doesnt officially rank but my counselor is able to give me an estimate should I put that in my class rank? I am asking this because I am an International student from a very rigorous school, where my grade average (about 80/100) is terrible compared to US standards but at my school it is considered about top 20%.
hi iris!! love your videos. I'm currently deputy head girl at my school so basically represented it, mentored prefects, managed at school events and had spent a lot of time planning out events and fundraisers and other things for school but due to COVID they all got cancelled. I'm afraid I won't have much to show to the universities since we couldn't get round to actually executing the ideas. how do I list these in the activities section, and will the universities still be impressed even if we couldn't execute our ideas due to an external obstacle?
That is okay and totally understandable! You can briefly explain this in add info but I also recommend using your time perhaps hosting virtual activities for your shcooo or on other projects that showcase ur initiative
Is doing a non-profit organization (online tutoring service in STEM) in a country with no such student-run services still not "impressive" or doesn't make you stand out? P.S: Are national golden awards (top 10 in the country) at science competitions and 1st places at national research competitions (also aiming for international awards) in Slovenia - EU country) - enough for making a hard spike?
it is impressive at least imo and i think would make u stand out, esp if your country doesn't have such services. i think slovenia is a relatively less competitive country, so i would try to get to international before calling it a hard spike. meanwhile, try to build out a related soft spike relevant to your research/science competitions
it depends per school! every school posts their supplementary essays on their website so you can find them online :) stanford had about 3 in addition to the common app
Another question, when I took my act the first time it automatically got sent to some colleges. Do I have to still send in my act on my common app too?? I'm not really happy with my first time act score of 23 and I havent gotten the chance to retake it yet :(
I think so. If a school superscores, their system would simply select for your highest scores (so they won’t see your first sitting), but you still have to list it in common app. I’d also call/email common app or look at their FAQ to double check this
hi iris, thank you so much for all your beneficial videos. It really means a lot. I had a quick question: is it okay to write about the effect a novel has had on you for the CA essay?
Hi everyone! In this recorded live webinar, we go through each section of the Common App and the strategies you can use to maximize your college application. You can also sign up for a free 20-minute consultation with Bullseye Admissions here: bit.ly/freetrialfromiris
This is the first interview, is it 20 minutes, and how?
Hi Iris! I am an international student and i feel a little bit confused about the honors section in common app:/ Should i add my national exam ranking and math olympiad ranking in the activities section or honors section? Bc we do not have honors classes in Turkey... Btw thanks for the video💘
HI Iris, will it be too early for a junior to start with Bullseye program?
How will I be able to submit teacher recommendations? I think there is a tab about recommendations for each school. If I want to ask two teachers, how do I apply them to all schools on common app? Thank you, love your videos!
Could you review my common app, please?
Not sure if a bunch of info like this is given to US students at school, but as an international student, this helps a lot! Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
No, it’s not really given to us at school, at least not at mine or in most schools, so this video is super helpful for us too!
As an international student living in a country where the process is completly different, I agree.
EXACTLY
Where are you ? Can you help me please
Today i was feeling so dumb and alone and finding a video that explained all and understand my worries make me feel better thanks!!
Yay that’s awesome!!
literally same! Many colleges though don't organize their websites well at all so don't worry it isn't just you, good luck!
You're literally the QUEEN of admissions!!! Thank you for all the helpful vids
You're so welcome! And lmk if you ever have video requests or anything :)
I’m so glad I watched this because I’ve done almost all the questions for Stanford and thanks to you I’ve saved all my essays in my notes so I can fill them out again after 8/1. Thank youuu
Good!! Glad this video helped you out :)
did you get in?
I know you mean well but man every time you post a college admissions related video, my heart drops because I haven't even started preparing for this upcoming college admission season 😩
oh no I don't mean to stress you out!! (also i typed this response earlier lol idk why it didn't post, but here it is again :) i justed wanted to say that i hope you just watch my vids for guidance, and never for stress. if you find that they're not good for your mental health then maybe skip watching them? and only watch them when you actually start working on your apps are finding that u need that extra help/guidance. pls take care and remember that you got this and can do anything you set your mind to!
pls don’t delete this, will be needing this in a year x
Congrats on 4K! You have been very inspiring for me and a lot of people. I wish you the best at Stanford 😊
Ahh thanks Elyse! Good luck with all your endeavors as well!
Thank you! You are helping the whole community!
Thanks for this message!
Hey iris loving it but I have 2 suggestions I’d love to see
1. How to get/run for leadership positions and differences between elected/appointed/accoades/recognition
2. How to “fancy word”/“sugarcoat” the EC description
Like instead of I am a debate offericer and I compete in regional tournaments
Becomes I am the 2nd in command of XY HS debate squad and I have done list duty and have competed at state and high level of competition such as out of state regional tournaments.
Still thank you for being this resource
ah yes, great suggestions! thank u and i'll add them to the content calendar :)
Iris Fu Is there a way to see your content calendar or no if not No prob.again loving your work
Iris Fu a video on number 2 would be awesome!
I’m sorta confused about the recommendations, do my teachers see which schools I’m submitting their recommendation for or do they just submit it to the portal and then I choose which school each letter goes to? I’m just worried because I’m applying to quite a few schools for financial reasons and I don’t want them to get annoyed at having to submit their letter to so many different schools.
I have the same question!
they just submit it to the portal and then you choose which school each letter goes to. i think your counselor (and maybe your teachers) get to see your entire school list, but they won't know which schools you're picking to send their recs to. and no! they just submit it once to your common app portal, and then you submit the letter for them every time you submit an application. the letter is attached to your application, and you choose which letter to attach. i know this might be a bit confusing so just lmk if you want any clarifications!
hi melany, see response above :)
i think it might also help if you play around a bit with the portal rn to get a sense of its functionalities
@@irisfu6929 hey Iris! when should we ask our teachers for recommendations? I asked a few teachers already (right after remote learning ended) but I held off on asking a teacher because I wanted to wait for my ap scores to come out. Now that the scores have came out, I want to ask her for a rec but I'm not sure if I should ask her right now, since I don't want to interrupt her summer schedule D:
I believe that the common app activites section is actually limited to 150 characters and the awards/honors section is limited to 100. Great video though!
Yes thanks for the correction!!!
Hey Iris. Your videos are very helpful. I had some questions: 1) How do I select what to put in the activity section and what in the honours and award section for my ECAS? 2)Should I put information about any internships in the activity section?
1) I made a video on this! Check out the "how to find your spike" and the worksheet linked in the description there -- it will help you narrow down / select for just 10 activities for your application 2) yes, you should!
Hey I’m not sure if I missed this, but have you talked about how you applied as a junior and a senior, I never knew that’s as possible.
A little bit. Check out my earlier video “I applied to college twice??”
Iris you're such a queen for this! thank you so much
haha ur welcome john!
One of the best channels which helps me a lot🥺
❤️❤️❤️
YOU ARE AMAZING I LOVE YOUR DEDICATION!
Thank you ❤️❤️❤️
Please use the space below to provide details about the change in progression through secondary/high school that you indicated above.*
What to fill in this form???
Thank you so much for the video ❤️ I was just looking for this kind of videos
You’re welcome 😊
omg thankyou so much iris ur a literal GOD
yeah ofc!!
*goddess not god
CONGRATS ON 4K!!!
Thank you Sania!
Wonderful video! This is exactly what I needed. Also, in terms of admission to competitive schools, how much do you think alumni interviews matter? Or your teacher recommendations? I'm curious because while ECs and your essay demonstrate your passion and your perception of yourself (self-awareness), are admissions officers more into how others (teachers & interviewer) perceive you? (sorry its long lol, just wondering)
So glad to hear that! i don't think the alumni interview matters at all -- it's more like a red flag check, so as long as u don't bomb it by doing something stupid, you're fine. i didn't get into the schools where my interviews went super well and got into others where i feel like the interview was meh or where i didn't have one at all. overall, i think everything comes together as a whole package, (but if u watch my harvard rating video tho i did find that in harvard's reading procedures extracurriculars and academics are considered most heavily)
Love the content! You just earned a new subscriber!
Welcome aboard!
Hey Iris, for your passion project SeeTheVoices, was it an organization? And...does something have to be registered by the government to be regarded as an "organization" or can someone just call it that (e.g. - I am starting an engineering/cs society that partners with elementary schools to go around and give talks to students. Will that count as an organization?)?
it was an org, but it doesn't have to be registered to be considered as an org. If it's registered, it'd be either a nonprofit or business. I would just call it an initiative or organization!
@@irisfu6929 oh ok, thank you so much!
Are u going to keep posting bullseye webinars in this chanel, or is it just a one time thing?
I think just a one time thing, unless I do more webinars in the future. Do you have an opinion on this?
@@irisfu6929 It would be really hopeful if you could post them or at least parts of it because not a lot of us can pay money for bullseye! Thank you!!
@@ayanmohamed9683 the webinars are free. just sign up with bullseye and you'll get email of webinars. No need to pay for their services (somewhat expensive imo) to get any info.
THANK YOU FOR THIS I’ve been putting this off for so long ahaha
Glad I could help! Now don't put it off any longer loll
Last question! I swear. I’m doing independent research during quarantine. I plan to finish my report in about a month! How would I even go about getting that published? Should I do more research into prestigious magazines? Does it still count as being published if I create my own website and just use it as a scientific journal? I’m asking about the create my own website part because I saw that in one of your videos I saw your website and it was very nice and I also saw PUBLISHED on like July something. ❤️🧡💛💚💜💙. Amazing video!!! I’m going to the 9th grade btw.
Nice! Congrats on almost finishing your report! So obviously, there’s gonna be diff levels of “prestige” with diff journals. I still think publishing on your website is pretty impressive, but if you can get it in Nature or something that’d be a jaw dropper. Overall, just do your best and see what comes your way!
Wait u said GOING INTO 9TH GRADE ?! Dang! You go girl!! (I’m going into 10th btw :))
Thank you so much and please don’t delete this video
Thanks for the video!
You bet!
omg i was in this meeting & u answered 2 of my questions lol!
ahh that's awesome! good to see you here too :)
Hiii so I’m going to be a sophomore student in high school and I’m planning to create a passion project, but I don’t know what to begin with. pls helppp
Hey!!
As Iris Fu mentioned in her last videos, a passion project is creating something that YOU are passionate about and it makes it more unique if YOU come up with your ideas! You got this!
Great Job on the video! It definitely helps as a junior who wants to try to apply to college. I just have a quick question, what year of graduation did select on the common app when you applied your junior year.
Hi Iris, I found your channel a few days ago and found it really helpful! I had a question about submitting a website portfolio. Would it be ok to submit a link of my website portfolio in the additional info section and then describe briefly?
Yes! That would be perfect (I did that as wel)
Hey. Could you doa video on students who have taken a gap year and are applying again? If you know any international students who have done that... It will be super helpful.
Yeah I will! I’m also doing a video on transferring soon so stay tuned!
Thank u soooo much for this video. It was very helpful
Yayy!!! Wasn't sure about uploading an hour long video, but I'm glad ppl are finding value in it
@@irisfu6929 you can upload up to 15 hours for a single video, trust me we will all watch it 🤩😂
Hey iris! Love your videos!! I wanted to know how you began your blog (like which website and the domain registrations)
i used wordpress.org with bluehost! many tutorials online for how to use this combo! about $3-5/mo
This was soo helpful!! Tysm❤️
Glad it was helpful!
Literally have no idea what I’m doing (applying to college) but Ivy League here I come 🤠
-if I actually get in I’ll try to leave an update
sameee
y'all got this -- believe in yourself and you're halfway there ✨💪
Thank you so much for such a helpful video 💕 I will be applying in 2 more years!!!
Btw, if all of my extracurriculars only relate to business ( join a business club, get business internship, teach finance,... ) do you think they are too boring and not diverse? 🥺
Not at allllll!!! That’s passion!!! But if you have other interests feel free to branch out!!!
GERKARIAH Thank you so much for your suggestion 💕💕
I ditto that!!
Hi! So I’m planning to write a book aimed at kids around grades 4-9 who are apathetic about school. It’s basically a young adult/advice book but written in a casual and personal tone based on my experiences as a low income student who found success through education.
I have two options: self-publishing via Amazon KPD or try to get a literary agent. My professor (who’s an author) says some people can get an agent’s attention/interest with Op-Ed pieces, so that’s what I’m trying to do (I’ve already got one!). This may be my only chance as a high schooler without experience.
If I go with self-publishing, I’m wondering what you think is the best option for editing the book once I finish it. I don’t have the finances to pay editors nor anyone around me willing to edit an entire book. Should I ask writing professors or what do you recommend?
Also, if you have suggestions on modifying my idea for the book PLEASE let me know! I’m gonna start it with a personal intro, then address the readers’ apathy to school, then discuss the problems with the education system, then explain why education is still valuable and why they should pursue the subjects that interest them, then offer my story, and finally have a last chapter where I explain what to do and not do. I should note that the book will be very colloquial as I’m addressing middle grade kids who generally don’t like reading, doing homework, learning, etc. I’m gonna do research (ofc!) for the parts in the education system but everything will be “dumbed down” so to speak.
Thanks SO MUCH for your help!! Your videos are a literal godsend for people like me and I’m so happy and grateful to be subscribed to you! :)
Nice work! I’d recommend asking professors or teachers to edit if you’re self publishing.
For the structure, I’d suggest starting with your story to draw readers in an help them make a personal connection with you, then go into the system and more technical stuff. This is kind of similar to the structure of man’s search for meaning, where the author had pt. 1 as a personal narrative and pt. 2 as the research he found that’s related to his narrative. This is all completely just my suggestion. I think the structure you stated would work well too, but that was just my two cents. Good luck!!
Iris Fu thanks so much!
In your common app, the activity description was limited to 150 characters but in the powerpoint it said 250, did the common app change the character limit this year? Also, is there a way to include media in the application-- a website link (that's clickable), a pdf resume, a video, etc?
shoot thanks for pointing this out! I think the ppt had a typo -- it should be 150 characters. and yes, you can include links
I would put the website link in extra information!!!!
Question: So if you’re applying to say like 11 schools and you pick a recommender, will they have to do 11 recommendations or do they send the same one to each school?
You send each recommendation letter to each school that you want to see it!!! You choose which school sees each letter. They write one letter.
Yep that’s right! Thanks for responding ah I love this community support
GERKARIAH ok, thank you!!
hello iris it’s really informative and really nice of you to share these tips! really appreciate it❤️ however, i want to ask the max limit of course i can report is 15, however, i took 19 courses during my junior year( im an international student)and i have no idea how i should fill out this part.
Omg this is so helpful!
So glad!
This is an amazing video describing almost everything. It made me stress free literally. Please tell me Can I apply for Phd with common app application?
This helps a lot thank you💗
You’re welcome 😊
I don't have any awards. how can i fill up the award section 😥😭
Hey Irish, I’m curious about the test optionals schools so for the testings section, because I am not confident about my ACT scores, what should I do?
You don’t have to send in your scores if you’re not confident about them!
your video is wonderful:) It provides a lot of useful info for uni application. I wish i have seen this video when i have been applying college this year.
As i am a senior from Hong Kong this year, I have very limited knowledge how the uni application work in the US. I got rejected from stanford and I wanna try again next year. Should i apply as a freshman again or should i do the transfer?
Is being a transfer stands very little chance of being admitted compared with as a freshman?
Really happy to hear that the video was helpful! Are you currently in university or taking a gap year? If you enrolled in a uni as a full time student, then you have to apply as a transfer. Otherwise, you can apply again as a freshman. Either could work, but the freshman acceptance rate is higher. I’m posting a video on transferring to Stanford soon tho so stay tuned for that as well and lmk if u have more questions!
@@irisfu6929 Is the process of applying as a transfer different from that as a freshman? The same supplement question?
I go to a small high school. Do you think it’s necessary to give them a recommendation letter template since it’s so small and they know me very well? Could I just tell them in person? I don’t want them to think I’m pretentious.
You could, but I don’t think giving them an outline will be pretentious, especially you frame it in a helpful manner
Heyy there, my recommender was asked about my gpa, but my final exams havent taken yet so what should i tell him to fill him, int. student.
Hi thank you for this helpful video! I started doing the things I like in junior year because I had family responsibilities in freshman and sophomore year. Is this something I can put in additional because I don't want to come off as not dedicated.
Yes, there definitely is! You can put it in add info as a learning/growth experience. Also, check this out: static1.squarespace.com/static/5b7c56e255b02c683659fe43/t/5ef9bf0b67d0746239a5b429/1593425675919/FINAL+Statement_+TTT+Deans+20200629.pdf
YESSS, THANK YOU!
You bet!
Hi this video is so helpful 👍
Question: is it bad that I don’t really have any leadership positions? Will it affect my application if I didn’t join any clubs
It’s not a deal breaker - also you can still show initiative / leadership through a personal passion project or something
Is it better to have different teachers recommemd for different schools?
One question:
Can I put one thing same in honour and activities?
What's the main diff? Is it about winning prizes? Wpuld lobe if you explain about that
As an international student, i always think that how are they gonna know if i am being true about participating in a competition? I can name so mamy state competition that never existed.
Where do you actually click "apply"? At what point? And what section is this in?
After you make them a recommender, what if the school diorama let you assign them is that normal , like some schools there was no assign option
Thanks!
Hi Iris! I loved this video! I have a question regarding creating a new email for the common app. Does the email I used for my college board account have to be the same as my common app email?
How did you apply for 2024? I am on the common app and I am trying to apply for 2023 but there is no option for that
omg also when you apply with the common app does it said if you got accepted in the common app or we get a letter
You get a letter in a different portal for each school!
Think the common app need more improving because I'm from the UK and the the scroll option only has US grades
Can we state how selective our awards in descriptions of the activities section? Like saying, “my quiz bowl team qualified for nationals, where the top 20 teams out of the 800 that compete qualify”?
Yes, but something like “one of 20 selected from 800” would be more brief (given word count limits)
Iris Fu thanks for the reply! I also had another question that I left on your other video- there’s the thing I’m genuinely passionate about, but the process of starting a whole nonprofit organization is too pricey and long, especially since I’m applying this year. Will it suffice if I do a fundraiser for it?
Hey Iris, I saw on your website it says "2020 Global Teen Leader Nominee," were you selected but opted out of the program? I'm a 2020 GTL and it would've been amazing to meet you!
omg! Hi!! I was nominated by an alum and then selected as an alternate. I would’ve loved to meet you as well!! Did the summit still happen with COVID?
@@irisfu6929 oh dang would've been super cool to see you there! They basically converted the week-long summit into 7 weeks as a sort of virtual summer program and promised to hold the physical summit when it was safe.
I feel late here. I'm a transfer student and my application is asking for activities done from X date to the term of application I'm applying for at a University. Problem was the main reason I didn't apply earlier was due to Covid going around and trying to be precautious.
What activities would I really list down here for this? I practically did nothing noteworthy.
not sure if you are still answering questions, but you mentioned in the video that we should not fill out things until august 1 because common app refreshes. Does that include personal questions such as family, coursework, etc?
Yes, I think so. I'm not 100% sure about this, but I would go on the safe side and just put all of you responses in a Google Doc, so you can copy and paste into the portal after 8/1
Hey! apologies if someone asked this in the Q&A but, do we have to report all of our AP scores? I did some research online, and most of them said we self report them so we can exclude the bad scores (2s and 3s) from the testing section. However, those responses are from years ago, and I'm not sure if rules have changed. Thank you so much for sharing this webinar! I couldn't catch a few things in the actual webinar so this is great :)
No you don’t!! Sending ap scores is completely optional
@@irisfu6929 thank you!
For the additional information section in the writing section, could I explain that I got a C in one class because the teacher had to suddenly leave since he got in an accident and I had a hard time adjusting to getting multiple substitutes? That's the only grade I have received in high school that isn't an A. I just don't want to make it sound like I'm blaming it on the teacher or anything.
definitely - to frame it in a positive light, consider adding one sentence or phrase about what you learned/how that experience help you in future experiences
How would common app work for an early college student ? I’m currently in high school and getting in college classes as well
Just wondering, what spot on your EC list did you put writing your book? Do you think I would have enough time to fully publish my book if I started writing it spring of junior year?
I put it on 2nd or 3rd I think! I started writing my book June after my junior year and finished by September. Other subscribers have also told me that they've finished their book (and it's only been 3 months since I started this channel!) so yes, you def have enough time. go for it!!!
but do keep in mind though that in June I spent a week working on my book legit 10 hours a day, so I think it's in large part due to a lot of time that opens up in the summer
Yeah, I will need to commit so much time if I'm going to do it. Thanks and gl at Stanford!
thank you
Hey, Iris. Thank you so much. You really helped me! But I also have a silly question) What do I need to put in "ED Signature" when I apply to early decision university? Just my full name or I have to do anything else?
I think just first name!
Considering most schools are test optional should I still submit my first time act score of 23 even though I havent had a chance to retake it to make it better? Also, can I choose which schools to send my act score to and which schools I dont send my act score to? (I'm applying to some colleges and some music conservatories which have always been test optional)
If you get rejected EA and are being considered RD, would make changes on the common app result in the AOs knowing. I remember you mentioned that there would be a pdf sent to them, is this right?
Hey Iris! I have been watching videos from your channel since your college reactions post. Many people are telling me that I should build a good relationship with my college admissions officer for my dream school. Do you have experience doing that and if so do they just mean emailing them with questions?
I did that the first time I was applying, and I don't think it did anything LOL. The admissions officer also changed for my second time applying. I don't think the relationship beforehand will matter at all -- they literally email so many students, and will admit you based on your application (essays, activities, academics, etc). Don't stress too much about emailing them for the sake of emailing bc it honestly feels a bit contrived
Hello. Please help me. In some Yoube videos I have heard about general CommonApp essay and Harvard specific essay. Do I have to write TWO essays if I am applaying to Harvard, I really don't understand. I also have heard that you have to write 50-words message about why you choose Harvard, is that is Harvard specific essay?
Is common app works for graduate schools too ? I wanna do my master abroad, so was looking for some ki da portal to apply.
there’s this scholarship foundation that I got nominated for but i have to do early decision but can I still also apply to normal to other schools and if I get rejected to my ed then what?
If you get rejected ED you apply RD to all your other schools
Iris Fu wait and i do this after my rejection or can I apply to my regulars and early at the same time
You can apply at the same time - but you just submit it as regular decision (eg the deadlines for RD will likely be all 1/1, but you can submit it earlier)
where do I find the decision that a college makes whether I got in or not if I applied on the common app, if its on their website do i need to go make an account for each college website to access it?
The college will send you a link to access their portal after you submit your app. You can see updates through the portal
can someone explain to me the honors part? I'm not from USA and I'm not sure if we have any of the examples she have in that section :/
It’s basically a section where you get to list five, honors. Anything can be an honor, from meeting a famous person to being the top of your class - hope this helps but lmk if u have follow up questions!
19:52 is is really helpful in order of acceptance?
Hey, I can use a lil help So I just finished one of my applications does anyone know if I can like use the same info on the application for another one Like ur address, education and all that?
Hello I’m wondering so like I applied to Arizona State University with the common app and i was wondering if the common app gives us the asu id or the asurite id
I think you’d get a separate email after sending in your application with your ID. I’ve never applied to ASU so I’m not 100% sure, but this was the process for other schools I applied to
Hi! Do you know if a college TA can write my letter of recommendation?
yes they can! but only if the school allows optional letters
@@irisfu6929 Thank you! I am confused. What is optional letter? Could I submit it as a teacher letter of recommendation?
Hey Iris, if my school doesnt officially rank but my counselor is able to give me an estimate should I put that in my class rank? I am asking this because I am an International student from a very rigorous school, where my grade average (about 80/100) is terrible compared to US standards but at my school it is considered about top 20%.
I don’t think you should put that in rank bc it’s an estimate, but I’d add it in add info for extra context
kksdoc,dkcmkdc
How many universities can you apply to through the common app???
hi iris!! love your videos. I'm currently deputy head girl at my school so basically represented it, mentored prefects, managed at school events and had spent a lot of time planning out events and fundraisers and other things for school but due to COVID they all got cancelled. I'm afraid I won't have much to show to the universities since we couldn't get round to actually executing the ideas. how do I list these in the activities section, and will the universities still be impressed even if we couldn't execute our ideas due to an external obstacle?
That is okay and totally understandable! You can briefly explain this in add info but I also recommend using your time perhaps hosting virtual activities for your shcooo or on other projects that showcase ur initiative
@@irisfu6929 got it, thanks a lot!!
URGENT QUERY: Is it important to fill out HONORS/AWARDS section for getting admitted to ivy league.(please respond and thankyou_)
I wish the father, but can I apply now, I know that I am late, but my conditions were critical
Is doing a non-profit organization (online tutoring service in STEM) in a country with no such student-run services still not "impressive" or doesn't make you stand out? P.S: Are national golden awards (top 10 in the country) at science competitions and 1st places at national research competitions (also aiming for international awards) in Slovenia - EU country) - enough for making a hard spike?
it is impressive at least imo and i think would make u stand out, esp if your country doesn't have such services. i think slovenia is a relatively less competitive country, so i would try to get to international before calling it a hard spike. meanwhile, try to build out a related soft spike relevant to your research/science competitions
@@irisfu6929 do you have any ideas about finding a. Soft spike in research and science?
Omg, this lasts one hour. LOL. Ofc im gonna watch it all
😂 listen to it like a podcast!
@@irisfu6929 I will lmao
Hi i am from ethiopia how can i contact you please?
Hey, how many essays are we supposed to write for one school?
it depends per school! every school posts their supplementary essays on their website so you can find them online :) stanford had about 3 in addition to the common app
Hi i am first year student from ethiopia how can i contact you please?
Another question, when I took my act the first time it automatically got sent to some colleges. Do I have to still send in my act on my common app too?? I'm not really happy with my first time act score of 23 and I havent gotten the chance to retake it yet :(
I think so. If a school superscores, their system would simply select for your highest scores (so they won’t see your first sitting), but you still have to list it in common app. I’d also call/email common app or look at their FAQ to double check this
hi iris, thank you so much for all your beneficial videos. It really means a lot. I had a quick question: is it okay to write about the effect a novel has had on you for the CA essay?
Of course!! Seems like it could offer new insights aboutnyou
@@irisfu6929 Thank you so much for your reply! really appreciate your advices and help.
but what if i already took an sat but don't want to submit it?
Some schools don’t require you to report all scores
Also,what if my grading system doesn't match the USA's?
U mean cumulative gpa?