Trying too hard in college admissions

It is that time of year again. Some applicants to colleges are submitting more than the requested applications. The Boston Globe discusses some of the items sent to admissions offices in the hope that they would improve the applicants chance at admissions.

Let’s keep this simple. DON’T do this. The message you are sending along with the gimmick is that your application is not strong enough on its own to allow you to gain admission. Instead, work on your grades, prepare for standardized tests, spend time at your favorite extracurricular activity and if you really have some extra time, spend it on polishing the application and essay. Doing these things will help your chances of admissions. Submitting something to make you the joke of the admissions office will not help your chances.