Georgetown, the Common App, and a Whole Lot of Hubris (or, Why Georgetown Doesn’t Play by the Rules)
So, you’re thinking about applying to Georgetown, huh? You’re probably picturing yourself strolling through the historic campus, sipping overpriced coffee in a charming cafe, and maybe even debating the merits of existentialism with a Nobel Prize winner (who wouldn’t want to be friends with a Nobel Prize winner?). You’ve even started compiling your list of extracurricular activities, trying to figure out how to make “obsessive Netflix watcher” sound impressive on your application.
But then you stumble upon a little detail that throws a wrench in your carefully crafted plans: Georgetown doesn’t use the Common App.
Wait, what? This is like finding out your favorite ice cream shop doesn’t serve cones. Or like discovering your best friend secretly hates cats. It throws your whole world off its axis.
Why, oh why, Georgetown, why?
Well, my friend, you’re not alone in your confusion. This is a question that has plagued countless high school seniors, sending them spiraling into a vortex of panicked Googling and existential dread.
Here’s the deal: Georgetown, in all its ivory tower glory, has decided to do its own thing. They’re like that one kid in school who always insisted on wearing mismatched socks and refusing to participate in the class play. They’re a little different, a little quirky, a little… arrogant?
Think about it: Georgetown is a prestigious university. They’re selective, they’re expensive, and they’re proud of it. They’ve got a reputation to uphold, and they’re not going to let some standardized application system dictate their terms. They’re like the cool kid who doesn’t need to be in the popular clique because they’re already the coolest kid in school.
So, what does this mean for you, the aspiring Georgetown student?
First, you’re going to have to do a little extra work. Instead of filling out the Common App, you’ll need to navigate Georgetown’s own application portal. Don’t worry, it’s not a labyrinth of impossible riddles and hidden traps (though it might feel that way at times). It’s just a different way of doing things.
Second, you’ll need to tailor your application to Georgetown specifically. This means highlighting your unique strengths and interests, and demonstrating how they align with Georgetown’s values and mission. It’s like dressing up for a job interview – you want to look your best and make a good first impression.
Third, you’ll need to understand Georgetown’s culture and community. Georgetown is a unique place with its own distinct personality. It’s a place where intellectual curiosity thrives, where traditions are cherished, and where social consciousness is paramount. By researching their history, values, and programs, you can show them that you understand what makes Georgetown special.
So, why does Georgetown do things differently?
Because they can. They’re a highly desired and highly applied-to university, and they have the luxury of choosing their own path. They believe their application process is more personalized and allows them to get a better sense of who each applicant is.
Is this a good thing or a bad thing?
That’s up for you to decide. Some students find the Georgetown application process to be refreshing and engaging. Others find it to be unnecessarily complicated and time-consuming.
But one thing is for sure: Georgetown’s decision to forgo the Common App is a bold statement about their identity and their commitment to their own unique vision.
So, if you’re determined to get into Georgetown, embrace the challenge. Dive into their application process, learn about their values, and showcase your best self. And who knows, maybe you’ll even end up being the coolest kid in Georgetown’s very own exclusive clique.
But if the thought of navigating a non-Common App application process makes you want to pull your hair out, there are plenty of other great universities out there that might be a better fit for you. Don’t let fear or frustration hold you back from pursuing your dreams.
And remember: Even if Georgetown doesn’t work out, you’ll still have plenty of opportunities to impress your future classmates with your knowledge of existentialism and your ability to recite the entire script of “The Office.”
After all, even Nobel Prize winners have to watch TV sometimes.
Need further help? If you’re still struggling with the Georgetown application process, or if you have any other questions about college admissions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the JobLoving community. We’re here to help you navigate the often-confusing and sometimes-overwhelming world of higher education.
Together, we can make the college application process a little less daunting (and a lot more fun).