Develop your spike

Overview

A "spike" is an area where you develop exceptional depth and achievement — something that makes you stand out from other applicants.

What Is a Spike?

Instead of being well-rounded across many areas, a spike means being exceptional in one area. Examples include:

• Published scientific research
• National competition placement
• A successful app with real users
• A nonprofit with measurable impact
• Recognition in regional/national arts competitions

Finding Your Spike

Ask Yourself

• What would I do even if no one knew about it?
• What problems frustrate me enough to want to solve them?
• What topics do I explore voluntarily?
• When do I lose track of time?

Start Small, Go Deep

1. Choose 1-2 areas of genuine interest
2. Invest significant time (5+ hours weekly)
3. Seek mentors and advanced opportunities
4. Look for competitions, publications, or ways to demonstrate expertise
5. Create measurable impact or recognition

Spike Categories

• Academic: Research, olympiads, publications
• Creative: Art, music, writing, film
• Entrepreneurial: Business, nonprofit, app development
• Athletic: Elite-level sports achievement
• Community: Significant service impact
• Technical: Coding, engineering, invention

Timeline

Sophomore year is for exploration and commitment. By end of junior year, you should have tangible results to show.

Encouraging Reminder

Your spike should come from genuine passion, not strategic calculation. Authenticity matters!