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.