The Role of Data and Aptitude in College Admissions

By Thomas Kang

Photo Credit: Getty Images

In the process of preparing for college admissions, the most commonly considered factors are data and probability. This data includes a student's high school GPA, SAT/ACT scores, AP course enrollment and exam results, extracurricular and volunteer activities, and family financial circumstances. It is typical for students and parents to determine whether to apply to certain universities as reach, match, or safety schools based on this data and to estimate the likelihood of acceptance using probabilistic models.

However, many students and parents overlook a critical aspect of the process: individual aptitude. While it is imperative to apply to colleges grounded in data and probabilities, factoring in personal interests and suitability with a school can significantly enhance the potential for a fulfilling and satisfying college experience.

The renowned Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu stated in the third chapter of "The Art of War": "If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles." This emphasizes the necessity of understanding both oneself and the environment. In the context of college admissions, recognizing one's own aptitudes and aligning them with suitable institutions can not only increase admission probabilities but also promise a positive college life and career outcomes.

Regrettably, many students apply without fully exploring whether a college genuinely aligns with their aspirations or suitability. Frequently, students apply based solely on reputation or parental expectations, unaware of their strengths and preferences. Consequently, statistics from the National Center for Education Statistics indicate that 33% of students change their major at least once within three years, and 38.5% of students transfer from a four-year institution to a two-year college, according to the 2018 National Student Clearinghouse Research Center.

To identify personal aptitudes, conducting assessments is beneficial. Unlike standard tests evaluating academic proficiency, aptitude tests explore individual abilities and interests, offering insights into potential. This knowledge contributes to selecting a college, major, and career path that align with one's personality and goals, leading to an enriched college experience and a promising future.

Benefits of Aptitude Tests

1. Assist in recognizing and understanding personal strengths and weaknesses.
2. Aid in discovering personal abilities and areas of interest.
3. Provide an opportunity to validate existing interests.
4. Offer clues for linking extracurricular and volunteer activities.
5. Support the preparation of college essays, resumes, and interviews.
6. Help find the right major and college.
7. Reduce the likelihood of transferring after enrollment.

Timing is an essential variable in successfully navigating college admissions while understanding one's aptitudes. Ideally, students should undertake initial assessments and consultations in ninth grade. Given that aptitudes can evolve similarly to visions, a second assessment and consultation at the beginning of eleventh grade is advisable. If the timeline is already missed, it is wise to conduct assessments as soon as possible and use consultations to understand personal propensities and chart a course for future readiness.

For further information, visit Thomas Edu Academy or contact us at (201) 292-1623. 

Thomas Kang is the Headmaster of Thomas Edu Academy.