You might have heard the term "brag sheet" mentioned a time or two, or never heard it at all. Around this time of year when application season is up and running, many students create what is called a brag sheet. In this blog post, we're going to break down what exactly a brag sheet is, why it can be useful, and why you need one!
What is a Brag Sheet?
A brag sheet is document where you list all your achievements, activities, awards, and other notable accomplishments. It's essentially a summary of your high school career, highlighting your strengths and the things you're most proud of. Typically students create them in their junior or senior year, but it's never too early to get a head start. If you've done something that you feel should be on your brag sheet in your freshman year, then write that down!
Students often use brag sheets to help them fill out college applications, and they might also share them with teachers or counselors who are writing letters of recommendation. It helps ensure that the recommenders have a comprehensive understanding of the student's accomplishments and can write a more personalized and effective letter. In doing this, it helps clear out any miscommunication that could be possible, and give your recommender help with either remembering something you did in practice or in the classroom, or giving examples to your character.
Why Should I Make One?
Having a brag sheet is an incredible resource for multiple reasons, not just letters of recommendation:
It keeps you organized.
A brag sheet helps you organize all the information you need for applications in one place. Instead of trying to remember everything when you’re filling out applications, you’ll have a clear reference of your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, awards, and other relevant information.
They highlight your strengths
Creating a brag sheet allows you to reflect on your high school journey and understand your strongest qualities. This makes it easier to focus on your key strengths when writing your personal statement or supplemental essays.
It prepares you for interview season
A brag sheet can also serve as a useful preparation tool for college interviews. It provides a summary of your experiences and achievements, making it easier to discuss them confidently during an interview.
It can serve as a reference in the future
Besides college applications, you can use your brag sheet when applying for scholarships, internships, or even jobs. It serves as a quick and easy reference for any situation where you need to highlight your skills and achievements.
What Should I Include in it?
After determining whether or not you'll be making a brag sheet, the next step is what you should put into it. The short answer is any positive thing that has happened in your high school career that you think will be beneficial for the college admissions team to know about or might potentially ask. Here are some examples:
Academic Achievements: GPA, class rank, honors, AP classes, etc.
Extracurricular Activities: Clubs, sports, leadership roles, etc.
Volunteer Work: Community service projects, volunteer hours, etc.
Work Experience: Part-time jobs, internships, etc.
Awards and Honors: Scholarships, academic awards, competition placements, etc.
Skills and Interests: Languages spoken, hobbies, special talents, etc.
Any of the listed above are items that will surely be asked about in a college application or interview.
We hope this has helped you figure out what a brag sheet is and determine what your brag sheet should look like! The college journey is rough, and we've been in your shoes before! If you find yourself needing help, contact us with the button below to set up your first call with one of our consultants. We're here so that you can succeed.
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