Every spring, seniors across the country open emails and letters that can change their lives. From competitive state universities to highly selective private universities, BCCHS students are proving that big goals start in our own classrooms and hallways.
With thousands of students across the country applying, what helps students stand out in such a competitive process? To find out, this reporter interviewed several BCCHS seniors who were accepted into multiple top colleges. Their responses revealed that success is not only about grades, but also about passion, purpose, and growth over time.
The first question asked is, “Looking back what specific activities, commitments, or passions do you think had the biggest impact on your college acceptance?”
Senior Brynn Sogaard studies for her Foundations of Healthcare class. (Joshua Strydom)
Instead of joining clubs just to fill a resume, these students focused on activities they genuinely cared about. Whether that was leadership and student government, dedication to a sport, involvement in community service, or pursuing a creative passion, students gravitated towards their passions—showing colleges what kind of person they really are. Senior Brynn Sogaard states, “Colleges do care if you show interest, actual passion, and commitment to those activities. For me, that was being involved in swim and track because I liked being part of a team; HOSA, and NHS because I value community involvement and Healthcare.”
Their stories suggest that colleges value consistency and authentic commitment over a lengthy list of random, disconnected achievements. While good grades and high test scores certainly open doors, personal statements help students define who they are and what they value. When asked how they approached their college applications, many seniors said they focused on being honest and reflective rather than trying to impress administration officers.
The second question asked to seniors is, “How did you approach your college application? Especially your personal statement to make yourself stand out?”
Senior Ella Fairbanks working on a project. (Joshua Strydom)
Instead of writing what they thought colleges wanted to hear, they shared personal challenges, moments of growth, and meaningful experiences. Senior Ella Fairbanks, for example, stated, “I was most proud of my essay because I was able to explain the struggles in my life and relate it back to how they never stop me from excelling in my classes and being a part of many clubs and extracurriculars.” Their approaches to the personal statement show that standing out often comes with vulnerability and self-awareness—not just from awards. For some students, there was a specific moment when they decided to aim higher and pursue selective schools. That decision often led to changes in their mindset, work habits, and long-term goals.
The last question asked is, “If you could give one piece of advice to undergraduates who dream of getting into a highly selective college what would it be?”
Common themes included starting early, staying organized, building strong relationships with teachers, and most importantly, pursuing what genuinely excites you. Senior Alex Johnson explains, “You just have to put the work in to do that, and you have to make sure that it’s in a way that is fostering your passion and individuality.” Several students also stressed the importance of balancing mental health with schoolwork, reminding younger students that success should not come at the cost of your own well-being.
In the end, getting into a top college is not only about the final decision, but also about a student’s commitment to passion, persistence, and purpose. Their experiences show that while selective colleges are competitive, the path towards them is built step-by-step throughout their high school career.
For underclassmen walking the same halls today, these seniors’ stories offer reassurance about how big dreams are possible, and they often begin with small, consistent choices.
