HOW I ~ACTUALLY~ GOT INTO STANFORD - The Truth About Stanford Admissions

Explaining my Stanford admissions file to see how I actually got into Stanford! What does it take to get into Stanford? What do college admissions officers look for? What does Stanford favor in applicants? How important are Stanford interviews? & the importance of intellectual vitality at Stanford. I read my admissions file today and it taught me a lot about the application review process and what factors make you more competitive!!! SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE COLLEGE APP CONTENT!
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WHAT TO WATCH NEXT:
» How To Write The STANFORD ESSAYS - • HOW TO WRITE THE STANF...
» HOW TO WRITE COLLEGE ESSAYS Step-by-Step - • How to Write EVERY TYP...
» Emotional Intelligence in College Essays - • The Importance of EMOT...
» Master the Art of College Essay Storytelling - • Master the Art of COLL...
» How To Revise College Essays - • I've edited 100+ colle...
» UC Application EVERYTHING To Know - • FINISHING YOUR UC APPL...
» How to Research Colleges - • HOW TO RESEARCH COLLEG...
» Perfect “Why Us” Essay Checklist! - • The Perfect "Why Us" E...
» Nail Your College Interview - • NAIL YOUR ONLINE COLLE...
MY ACCEPTED APPLICATIONS:
» How I Got Into Stanford - • HOW I GOT INTO STANFOR...
» How I ~Actually~ Got Into Stanford (My Admissions File) - • HOW I ~ACTUALLY~ GOT I...
» My Accepted Stanford Essays - • MY STANFORD ESSAYS + A...
» Analyzing My Common App Essay - • ANALYZING MY COMMON AP...
» USC had the program of my dreams... but I chose Stanford - • USC had the program of...
» My Accepted USC Essays - • MY ACCEPTED USC ESSAYS...
» My Accepted NYU Essay - • MY ACCEPTED NYU ESSAY
» My Accepted UC PIQ’S & Tips! - • MY ACCEPTED UC PIQ'S &...
» How I Crafted My Story For College Apps - • HOW I CRAFTED MY STORY...
MOST/LEAST IMPORTANT FACTORS IN COLLEGE ADMISSIONS:
» Ivy Leagues - • MOST/LEAST IMPORTANT F...
» USC, Duke, Northwestern, Carnegie Melon, Tufts, MIT, Barnard, Georgia Tech, Boston University, NYU - • Video
» Georgetown, UMich, CalTech, UO, UVA, Amherst, Vanderbilt, Caltech, Notre Dame, Swarthmore - • MOST/LEAST IMPORTANT F...
» UC’s - • MOST/LEAST IMPORTANT F...
LIFE AT STANFORD:
» Stanford Move in Vlog! - • STANFORD MOVE IN VLOG ...
» Stanford Expectation VS Reality - • Stanford Expectation V...
» Day in the Life At Stanford - • A Day In The Life At S...
» Stanford Dorm Tour - • STANFORD DORM TOUR - N...
» My First Quarter At Stanford! - • MY FIRST QUARTER @ STA...
» Stanford Q&A Part 1 - • STANFORD Q&A PART 1: t...
» Stanford Q&A Part 2 - • STANFORD Q&A PART 2: e...
» How’s Stanford’s Food? - • How's The Food At Stan...
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[@DyllenNellis]

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[@conniedu1980]

omg 4-0-0 i think means the four admissions officers all said accept, none of them said waitlist or reject

[@DyllenNellis]

Oh interesting!!

[@mervyngreene6687]

I attended Stanford from 1974 to 1978. One of my work study jobs was as a tour guide in the Admissions Department. One of my duties was to spend time with applicants (taking them to my classes, lunch, etc.). I learned a lot about the admissions process while I worked there--mostly through casual conversations. First, applicants who the Admissions Officers feel cannot meet the school's academic rigor are excluded. Of course, this leaves a LOT of eligible candidates. This is probably the most objective part of the process. Then, there was the usual factors (valedictorian, class president, team captain, etc.). The "elite school" criteria (important/influential family, school legacies/major donor). The new (at that time) metric "diversity." Then, the Admissions Department started looking at the special Stanford factors. A. The "Blue Chip" advantage. Stanford has made it this an art form. a) It included the usual sports football, baseball, and basketball, but also Stanford "money sports (Tennis , golf, and swimming and diving. And anyone who was competitive in international and Olympic competition. b) candidates nationally (or better yet, internationally) in any field. This includes: B, Extraordinary leadership experience. C. The candidate's ability to significantly improve the residential education experience. This was a hyper diversity factor. The Admission Department tried hard to avoid having too much of one "type" in an entering class. D. Then there was the "quirkiness factor." That was the reason for the serious attention given to essays, references, interviews, and general information. I remember that I would get the third degree from Admissions Officers after every contact I had with a candidate. It would start with a low key conversation. But, it always ended with the same question "would you want to room with this person?" I think what I liked most about Stanford was that there was no set explanation that would cover who was accepted and who wasn't. A. Athletics a) Blue Chip Athletes in the "money sports" (football, baseball, basketball, TENNIS, and GOLF); b) Blue Chip Athletes in the "prestige (elitist) sports (Sailing, Fencing, Lacrosse and Water Polo); c) Blue Chip Athletes in the "great press" sports (gymnastics, swimming and diving, and track); and d) Blue Chip Athletes who excelled in sports that Stanford rarely competes in at the collegiate level (figure skating, speed skating, skiing, luge, etc.). Most of these athletes usually already have a national (international) reputation. B. The Arts a) there were an obscene number of students who had performed at Carnegie Hall (or its equivalent) when I was there. Also, a few commercial musicians. b) stage, television, and movie performers. Can you say the Savage Brothers and Danny Pinturo; c) plus published writers, poets, etc. C. Social Activists a) back in the 1970's this was a bonanza category for people of color. Almost everyone I knew had campaigned or interned for someone, started a club/support group for their cultural community in their privileged prep school. Or fought for improvements in their public school. It was the 1970's. b) Also, almost EVERYONE had meaningful volunteer experience in outreach/advocacy programs. Most had either started or led an important local program. c) Lots were president of their school's Young Republican/Democrat/whatever political club, had participated in a youth United Nations program. d) they were youth leaders in their religious organization. D. Then, of course, the "who's your Daddy" Blue Chippers. What I found interesting about this group was the anonymity that they and their parents enjoyed. Most of them came from influential families who were NEVER in the News. Except, maybe, the Society pages. And, the only people who knew about them were their closest friends. And, peers. E. Finally, when I was there, the Dean of Admissions LOVED quirky stuff. I remember at one of my reunions, the Dean of Admissions admitted how I caught his imagination. He said that he just didn't "get" me. At first,he thought that I was a "young, gifted, and black" type: a black kid from segregated Birmingham, Alabama public schools who graduated from a prestigious New England prep school. But, I didn't seem to assimilate into the dominant culture, nor did I separate with the small group of my cultural peers. I seemed to try everything (ice hockey, dance, and theater). Yet I spent my vacations in Alabama, active in my family church and helping my politically active parents. I tutored kids at the elite local public schools. And Everybody seemed to like me without feeling threatened or resentful. My prep school college advisor said that I would be accepted to colleges because I was "Merv."

[@claudiadiaz5874]

This is incredibly helpful, thanks for thanking the time to write all of this. I’m really grateful

[@claudiadiaz5874]

*taking the time

[@PNA_comics]

Thank you for giving so much of helpful information!✨

[@katzenschildkroete]

Very informative and direct, thanks! I personally was surprised at how certain factors are weighted very differently compared to how I would expect them to be. And love your facial expression on the thumbnail hahaha I really admire your confidence, style of communication and the way you explain things. Could you do a video on Stanford interviews next? Mine’s coming up in a week and I’d be very happy if you could go through: - some of the common types of questions that you and your roommates/friends were asked (were they more related to you specifically or abstract/creative?) - big no-no’s - how specifically you were asked about your activities (esp. the programming projects - I have a few of them myself) - formal stuff (how to dress, what information interviewers have about you etc.) I’ve researched quite a bit online already but of course it’s much better to hear from somebody firsthand who went through the process successfully. I keep reading it’s best to just be authentic and relaxed, but I think some specific preparation always helps - even if it’s just to calm yourself down. I’d be very thankful if you could record such a video. :) PS: I’m an international, so it’d be great if you also have a friend who went through the same thing...

[@DyllenNellis]

Thank you so much, I really appreciate it!! I actually talk about my interview experience in my How I Got Into Stanford video. I did do a lot of prep beforehand by writing down things about myself and stories that I wanted to make sure to mention.

[@tchit8792]

Wow I couldn't imagine if they didn't admit you omg. But this also shows how much doing unique things you're is passionate and curious about is important in college admissions.

[@PrincessDaisyTseng]

so much respect for those admissions officers LOL knowing and writing all those terms/code number things haha

[@yea9534]

THIS WAS POSTED ON MY BIRTHDAY YAYYYYY

[@forevatemilio5514]

That was amazing!! Congrats!

[@DyllenNellis]

Thank you!!

[@wishIKnewHowToLove]

VERY INTERESTING! THANK YOU!

[@WayneLynch69]

"sweet", "easy to talk to", "a little shakier", "whip her cohort into shape", "tears were shed", "could get along with anybody"... WOW...I expect more exalted phraseology from Stanford. Window on who's thought "expendable" enough to do admissions?

[@naois]

hey dyllan! do you think you could maybe make a video about your college interviews? :) love you channel 💜

[@DyllenNellis]

Possibly! Thanks for the suggestion :)

[@omarsacademia1228]

4.0 to 4.1 that’s the amount of rigor I have I took about 5 science classes in my high school I took Biology to Honors AP Chem with Honors Microbiology and Physics, and also I took AP Government and Accelerated Algebra 1 to Trig/ Analytic Geometry- which I know is Honors class in every school and also I am passionate about my career in a fact that I job shadowed 3 areas that matched up my career which is Anesthesiology, Orthopedics, and SDS which I got 150/150 and valued 5 for my skills in them. Also in top of that I took General Psychology and English 4 Technical Writing during the summer of Junior year. As far as extracurriculars, on how strong I was willing in my academics I participated in Math Team, Science Club, and History Fair ( Research project) for two years. Oh and I forgot I got the Academic Achievement Award 4 years of high honor rule (My hope is not getting rejected because I didn’t took AP Bio and AP Physics Edit took College Biology during the summer that will wave AP Biology

[@DyllenNellis]

Trust me, not taking a certain AP class WILL NOT automatically reject you. It's always based on many different factors.

[@user-bb1xh5yd1v]

Hi, Dyllen, I really like your sharing of experiences of getting into Stanford, it is very helpful. May I know what major did you apply?Do you need to declare major during application or is it any trouble if you choose undeclared? Thank you very much for your response.

[@DyllenNellis]

I applied for CS + Humanities (that program doesn't exist anymore) and my second choice Art Practice. After being admitted, the major you put on your application doesn't mean anything and you can study whatever you want! I am now majoring in Art Practice with a minor in Symbolic Systems :)

[@stephenschuster3555]

The thumbnail shoulda been you with a random building in the background with your last name photoshopped on to it

[@RobotChad]

3:57 is terrifying

[@DyllenNellis]

i KNOW ugh the video conversion from iPhone to Premiere was not working too well. But now I know how to fix it and my new videos don't have glitches!!

[@forevatemilio5514]

You're so talented! Any advice for high school students that are interested in graphic design?

[@DyllenNellis]

Thanks!! And I’d say just start practicing! There are so many free tutorials online just on KZbin. And follow graphic design accounts on insta!

[@forevatemilio5514]

Dyllen Nellis Thank you!! I’ve taken an advanced computer graphics class but we never got to finish our projects due to the pandemic. How can I begin my own project because I’m thinking about applying to the scholastic competition.

[@jimmykoikkara2946]

Hey well hi I simply want this stated but you look kinda like emilia clarke to me Who else thinks so?

[@GrandmaSkillz]

Hi! I applied to Stanford this cycle with an arts portfolio. Do you know if those with an arts portfolio have a higher chance of being accepted?

[@forevatemilio5514]

Hey I’m going to be apart of girls who code and built by girls this year! However, due to the pandemic the time has lessened. Instead of 7 weeks, it’s going to be one week. Will that affect my college application? Is the amount of time weak? If so, how can I improve the way it looks as an extracurricular?

[@DyllenNellis]

Hey!! That’s super great you’re doing these programs! I do not think the amount of time will matter at all frankly, or at least, it won’t make a big difference. I think colleges will be especially understanding that things are changing under the pandemic. Just make sure to explain in the description all that you did/learned!

[@carlosarias9013]

Hi Dyllen! I’m going to Stanford this fall and I’m so excited, was the signing up process for this long/complicated?

[@DyllenNellis]

Hey congrats!!! It was not complicated at all. I just signed up online over winter break and received an email a few weeks later to book an appointment.

[@carlosarias9013]

Dyllen Nellis Awesome thanks! Love ur videos btw lol

[@wispral7739]

what were your ec's and stats? stanford is my dream school 😭

[@trash5709]

you're so pretty :0 and smart

[@MetFansince]

Yep, I'd admit you...

[@DyllenNellis]

haha thanks

[@spotmebro3589]

Hello. What degree/program were you applying to?

[@forevatemilio5514]

what does 1 stand for? Is that the highest score? Does that indicate that your extracurriculars were great/ the highest thing on your application?

[@DyllenNellis]

Yes! The lower the number, better the score.

[@forevatemilio5514]

@@DyllenNellis Oh also I'm currently doing Girls Who Code and Built By Girls!! It's been such an amazing experience however, the programs were cut short due to the pandemic. For example, Girls Who Code will only take place for a week. Should I still place it into my application? Will the amount of time affect me?

[@nellieeess]

@@forevatemilio5514 is girls who code actually free? Because I checked the website and it costs money. I didn’t read into detail yet

[@nirajkumar9906]

Hi I am open student imo want know stanford entrance exam

[@SupermomAnne]

What does "leaning in" refer to and signify?

[@DyllenNellis]

I’m not entirely sure but I’m just assuming that it means they were leaning toward my application ??

[@babington4394]

Why do they speak in code

[@OrdenJust]

Congratulations, Dyllen! You deserve all good things, and Stanford was wise to recognize that! Now as to the redacted part. (Take this with a grain of salt!). Since Stanford won't disclose this, I for one am left no choice but to let my imagination run amok in unfounded speculation, informed by such wisdom that one accumulates from the most unlikely sources. Here's what I think. Stanford Admissions has a secret code in which prospective students are appraised in much the same way as an oenophile would write about wine. (Stanford is not so far away from California wine country, after all.) So, for example, a football recruit might be described as high in tannins, while a would-be theater major might be "subtly demure but playfully articulate." An English major might be described as having a nose with strong floral accents" while a philosophy major might be a good fit with any meal, since we would find his/her pretensions amusing. Etc., etc. Mouthfeel. Finish. Full-bodied or not. You get the picture. So if I were on the admissions committe, what would I guess about you? I think you are more of a chardonnay that a cabernet savignon. (I hope that does not disappoint you!). I might even go so far as to suggest a Veuve Cliquot, but you know how territorial the French are with their appelations. So let's just give a sly and knowing wink when we say "sparkling wine", though we both know what I reall mean is...champagne! :)

[@dylluted]

Could su 4.0 mean subjects unweighted?

[@DyllenNellis]

not sure but possibly!

[@yeqinzhang7177]

what does "support" mean?

[@DyllenNellis]

I am not too sure, but someone else suggested it meant how much support was given by your teachers/counselors from your recommendations

[@yeqinzhang7177]

There is a category for high school class rank?

[@DyllenNellis]

Yes! It came with my application because I input it when I applied.

[@yeqinzhang7177]

they actually give a number for your high school ranking? omg but my rank was... not that good

[@DyllenNellis]

The rank was given by my high school, not by the Stanford admissions officer :)

[@DyllenNellis]

It’s based on GPA

[@JashimRules]

Unrelated, but her eyes are so pretty.

[@DyllenNellis]

thank you!

[@SamElle]

I wonder if I could do this at Cornell.. hmm

[@ahmeddarfur6102]

Sam Elle by law ur allowed to

[@yeqinzhang7177]

If my GPA and class rank was low for a special reason, should i explain that to colleges? Do they actually listen and will recalculate my GPA?

[@DyllenNellis]

You can explain circumstances like these in the additional info section. I doubt they will recalculate your GPA though.

[@mervyngreene6687]

Yes! If there is a compelling explanation (illness, etc.) it can make a difference. However, it has to be a REALLY compelling reason.

[@jiahuijin214]

what does the support mean?

[@DyllenNellis]

I honestly don't know

[@scottjackson163]

Stanford graduate here. Is it okay to say that you beautiful? You are beautiful, and intellectually vivacious.

[@elinemateo]

:)

[@saurfish]

Please. For the love of everything- where is your lil piggy stuffed animal from. Please. I beg of you. I need to know. Please. I need lil piggy for my health. Please.