Admissions

Don't bother joining every organization that your school/community offers. Try to find a few things that you really like to do by junior year and really hone in on them. Everybody I've met here did lots of really cool stuff in high school, but they limited themselves to only a few activities that they were passionate about.

Getting in is likely the hard part! Take the most challenging courses your high school offers and do well in them. Make sure to get involved and stay involved in clubs of your interest.

Bring a big variety of clothes since many of the social events include costume parties, such as 80's themed or mathlete themed dances. Get into the routine of cleaning a little bit every day since you won't usually have the time to stop what you're doing and do a full run through of the room.

Definitely come and see the school before you decide here. I would suggest contacting the admissions office to see if they can find someone you could stay with for a night (everyone loves hosting potential students!). I fell in love with Yale when I first came; it's how you know you'll be happy here. Also, come to Bulldog Days if you get in! It's tons of fun to meet future Yalies.

If you are accepted, make sure it's the school and not just the name that you love (that goes for any school). Also, go to Bulldog Days if you can. I felt that Yale was the right fit for me when I visited, which is why I'm here now. If you decide to enroll, sign up for a pre-orientation program; it's a great way to start the semester with a group of friends and makes the transition so much easier while also giving you connections to upperclassmen. FOOT (Freshman Outdoor Orientation Trips) was one of my favorite Yale experiences!

You want to be able to stand out in a positive way among applicants in your pool, and the best way to do that is to adopt a memorable tone in your essays. Also be sure that Yale is a good fit for you--it may not be the case!

Be authentic in your application. Trying too hard to sound intelligent will only make you stilted and bland, so instead show the admissions team that you have a unique personality/perspective that will add to the diversity of Yale. Also, seriously consider why you want to attend Yale. "It's an Ivy" is not good enough, and will not earn you an acceptance.

Yale really does look at more than just academics. They are really interested in students' extracurricular activities. They make it incredibly easy for students to start their own clubs. I really believe that I was admitted because of my dedication to high school extracurriculars.

Dear prospective students, do not be discouraged by the university's acceptance rates: you should definitely apply. Yale loves quirky students, so feel free to brag about uncommon talents and unusual stories/ background. Yale's also great about financial aid, so don't let tuition costs dissuade you!

If you are considering applying here, I suggest that you focus on your personal essays. Everyone applying here is amazing academically and does a million and one activities. Your personal essay is your area to say hey! this is me and i'm perfect for your school! It's what takes your scores, statistics and resume and makes it into a real person. Think of it as your closing argument.