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How to make college applications stand out amid pandemic

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Posted at 7:09 AM, Jan 15, 2021
and last updated 2021-01-15 10:51:02-05

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — College application deadlines are right around the corner for high school seniors. But with the pandemic, some are having trouble polishing up their resumes.

Without the usual extracurricular activities, students now have to find ways to make their college applications stand out.

For starters, this time on the common application, students have the option of writing up a 250 words or less essay showcasing how the pandemic has affected them personally and academically.

Also this year, standardized tests like the ACT and SAT aren’t required, but that doesn't mean less attention will be given to grades, recommendation letters and other essays that many schools require.

While a lot of extracurricular activities to spruce up the resume aren't available, experts say students can still get creative.

“Take online course, online tutoring, even online volunteering, there are still ways that can students can build out that resume, online research, virtual based internship, and that might even go into the summer,” said Jamie Brown Kennedy, Managing Director of Brown Kennedy Consulting.

Something else to note, students can still take standardized tests if they want to. If you take it multiple times, many colleges will take the highest score.