Explore spike areas

Overview

A "spike" is an area where you develop exceptional depth — something that makes you stand out. Freshman year is perfect for exploring what yours might be!

What Is a Spike?

Instead of being "well-rounded" at everything, colleges increasingly value students who are exceptional in one area. Examples:

• Published research in biology
• Award-winning filmmaker
• Founder of successful nonprofit
• State-level debate champion
• App developer with real users

How to Explore Potential Spikes

Notice What Excites You

• What topics could you talk about for hours?
• What do you do in your free time by choice?
• What problems do you wish you could solve?
• When do you lose track of time?

Try Different Areas

• STEM: Coding, robotics, research, math competitions
• Humanities: Writing, debate, Model UN, languages
• Arts: Music, visual arts, film, photography
• Entrepreneurship: Starting clubs, businesses, nonprofits
• Athletics: If pursuing at a high level
• Service: Deep community involvement

Freshman Year Approach

• Explore widely this year
• Note what genuinely excites you
• Don't commit too narrowly yet
• Pay attention to what you'd do even without "credit"

Signs of Genuine Interest

• You pursue it beyond requirements
• You seek advanced opportunities
• You want to learn more independently
• Time flies when you're doing it

Encouraging Reminder

You don't need to have your spike figured out yet! This year is about discovery.