Introducing Sarah: US College Support
Sarah is our resident mentor supporting students interested in studying in the US.
Sarah grew up in Surrey, and prior to university studied Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Psychology at A-level. Alongside her studies she was an elite athlete, representing Great Britain in long jump. From 2011-2015, Sarah attended Harvard University and was a member of the Track & Field team before focusing in on her studies. She majored in Human Evolutionary Biology with a secondary in Mind, Brain and Behaviour, in which she achieved cum laude honours. Back in the UK, Sarah studied medicine at Imperial and is now a junior doctor working in London.
Since graduating from Harvard and throughout medical school, Sarah has committed herself to helping other students who are seeking further education opportunities in the US. She co-founded a service supporting student-athletes looking to leverage their athletic talent to gain admission into US colleges. Sarah has worked with students who have been accepted into many top universities, including Harvard, Princeton, UChicago, UPenn, McGill, Rice and Columbia.
Sarah is passionate about empowering students to take charge of their own application process and ultimately enjoy the experience. Applications should not be a “one-and-done” effort, but should be seen as an opportunity to practice self-reflection, communication and effective writing, which will prepare students for college. Sarah mentors students to take on autonomy and accountability in their work and guides them to produce work that is a celebration of their skills, characteristics and ambitions. Much of the US application process is holistic and requires students to look within themselves and Sarah is often inspired by the stories, experiences and perspectives of our students.
How can we help you?
Understanding the US college system: supporting you figure out whether the US system could be a fit for you academically, socially and in your extracurricular endeavours.
Getting to grips with the US application process: helping you understand exactly what is required when you make an application, how long it might take, and what resources you will need.
Choosing schools: whether you’re torn between the East or West coast, or can’t decide on an intimate college community or big city school, we can help you narrow down to a sensible list of prospective universities based on your academic standing and interests.
Applying: once you’ve decided that the US is for you, and you’ve chosen your schools, we will support you as you put your application together. This includes helping you write your personal essay and additional college supplements, organise teacher references and submit any additional portfolio requirements.
Preparing for college: once you’ve been accepted into your dream school, we’ll help prepare you for what to expect when you get to college – how to keep up in the classroom while making the most of all the extracurricular opportunities available to you.
“Who, what, where, when, why, how” of US University Applications
Who?
YOU! You must take responsibility for your decision to apply to the US and ultimately your application. But you can’t do it alone! Family and friends can help you figure if the US is the right place for you. They can also help you reflect and consider the important themes and topics to include in your applications. School teachers can support with your references, transcripts and school reports, and Oppidan mentors can guide you through the process. It’s really important you have a great team around you on this journey.
What?
There are many components of the US application process. You need to do your research to learn if the US is right for you, before considering which schools you would like to apply to. You will use CommonApp to submit your application, which will consist of several essays, short answers, teacher references and school reports. You may also be required to sit an admissions test. Some schools invite students for an interview as part of their application. If you aren’t a US citizen, you will need to apply for a Visa before you leave, and all students need to complete other mandatory documentation including health insurance.
Where?
This can all be done from your computer, although if you have the means and opportunity, we would recommend trying to visit some of your prospective schools.
When?
Applying to the US is more time-intensive than other applications, for example UCAS in the UK. We recommend students start looking into their options at the end of Year 11 to ensure they have enough time to work through all the steps above. For students who think they may be eligible for merit-based scholarships, e.g. sports, music, drama, we recommend starting at the beginning of Year 11, as your process is likely to be longer and more involved.
Why?
There are many differences between studying in the US and UK (and elsewhere). A couple of the key positives of the US are that they have a completely different academic system, encouraging students to study a wider range of subjects to broaden their horizons. There also tends to be more substantial focus on extracurricular activities, whether it is sport, drama, research, music, or anything else you might wish to pursue. Finally, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new and exciting culture.
How?
Applying to university in the US is no mean feat, and you’ll need support throughout your journey.