Want the Ivy League to Take Notice? Build Something Extraordinary.
Written by:
Dana C.
Former Princeton Admissions Reader
With over a decade of experience guiding students into top US and UK universities, Dana is known for helping them design standout projects and extracurricular profiles that showcase authentic growth and impact.
Top universities such as Harvard, Yale, and Stanford are looking for the next generation of leaders and innovators — not just those with strong grades and test scores. What impresses admissions officers is passion turned into action — students who take an idea, show initiative and creativity, and build something with real-world impact. In this eBook, Dana reveals five ways capstone projects give students a decisive edge — transforming ambition into leadership, building credibility, and make an application impossible to forget.
Key Takeaways:
- Top schools notice original work. Student-led initiatives stand out against look-alike activity lists.
- Strong projects start with a why. Tying work to identity and lived experience makes it resonate.
- Admissions officers value results. You need to show context, growth, and outcomes.
- Recognition builds credibility. Projects that attract partnerships, media, awards, or awards signal real-world impact.
- Mentorship matters. The right guidance helps students turn ideas into finished projects that impress admissions officers.
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