Applications: Put Your Best Foot Forward

What are the keys to submitting an application that says, "Choose me! I'm the kind of person you want to accept"?

by Gary Antion

Submitting an application for admission to a college or university is an important step to higher education. Through 22 years of working at Ambassador University and Ambassador Bible Center, I've seen hundreds of applications for admission. These have convinced me that it's extremely important for an applicant to put his or her best foot forward when applying for college or a job.

Here are some tips to help you make a good impression, whether you are applying to Ambassador Bible Center, another educational institution or for a job.

First, be sure to complete the application. Look it over and make sure you have given all the requested information. When someone leaves out information, it does not make a good impression.

Next, if a picture is requested for the application, have a good one taken. Present yourself in the best possible light. I have seen copies of photos that make the person look sinister. I have also seen half of a photo that had the applicant in it—his arm was cut off since it apparently had been on his friend's shoulder.

This doesn't present the applicant in the best way possible. Instead, send in a good close-up of yourself—preferably taken by a professional or a skilled photographer.

Check your writing for clarity and grammar. Many include "mispeled wards" in their applications. This sends a signal that they weren't very accomplished in English classes. We all make the occasional mistake and misspell a word, but if the application has a number of misspelled words, it gives a dim impression of the applicant. Also, grammar is important. Check it carefully and have someone who is skilled in English proofread your application before sending it.

Finally, to submit a worthy application, don't be too humble or too vain. What do I mean? On an application we want to present ourselves in the best possible light. This does not mean telling untruths or exaggerating, but it does mean being honest.

This is the time to list your achievements and awards. This is the time to express why you truly want to attend that educational institution or obtain that particular job. If you act "too humble," the reviewer may think you really aren't that enthusiastic about the job or your education.

On the other hand, speaking too highly of yourself will come across as egotistical. So tell of your accomplishments and your hopes honestly and with enthusiasm.

Once you have considered the above tips, do a preliminary draft of your autobiography or any other requested information. Then type it or write it out in a neat style so that it's legible as well as grammatically correct.

If you follow these tips, you will truly put your best foot forward and give yourself the best opportunity for success whenever you fill out an application. VT