COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY Professional Development Institute Mock Application Review Session Renee Orlick and Jim Rawlins Office of Admissions

Overview To ensure that each applicant to Colorado State University receives the utmost consideration for admission, the Office of Admissions at Colorado State University utilizes a holistic application review. This approach recognizes that academic preparation may take several forms and that students contribute to the campus community in a variety of ways. January 2010 Colorado State University Office of Admissions

Assumptions Recognize the importance of coursework in the high school curriculum regarding number of courses completed and the academic rigor of those courses. Recognize the importance of meeting state requirements as set forth by CCHE. Recognize that the university has deemed non- academic factors, personal characteristics and individual experiences as important and positive for the campus community. January 2010 Colorado State University Office of Admissions

Academic Performance The holistic review approach emphasizes course selection, rigor, and academic performance and deemphasizes test scores. Colorado State University will continue to admit students who are academically prepared for the rigors of our classrooms. Typical incoming student F’08 (mid 50%) GPA: ACT Composite: SAT Combined: January 2010 Colorado State University Office of Admissions

Academic Rigor Course selection, including senior year Priority Consideration- meets CSU Priority Standards or HEAR 10 Requirements with at least a 3.25 GPA or HEAR 08 with at least a 3.5 GPA Level of course work- Honors, AP, IB, college level work Consistently good performer or upward trend EnglishMathNatural Science Social Science Foreign Language Academic Electives CSU Priority Standards HEAR 10 Requirements HEAR 08 Requirements January 2010 Colorado State University Office of Admissions

Academic Assessment Based on combination of GPA, test scores, course selection and rigor, applicants are divided into three categories: Priority Candidates move through the process quickly and considered for scholarship. Strong Candidates might require some additional discussion Potential Candidates require the most discussion Colorado State University- PDI Office of Admissions January, 2010 January 2010 Colorado State University Office of Admissions

Personal Assessment Active Participant Involved in activities outside the classroom through school, church, community or family. Demonstrates commitment to one or more activities/causes. Community Service Participates and is involved in the community (school, church, neighborhood) Desire to help or service others, to “give back” or to contribute to the larger society. Demonstrates contribution(s) to the community (service projects, for example) Leadership Has demonstrated leadership experience or shows interest in taking on leadership roles. Demonstrates responsibility through participation in activities in and out of school, at home, or in the community. Takes initiative Other Demonstrates persistence and an ability to overcome obstacles. Brings a diverse or unique perspective to campus. Contributes to family well being by working or caring for siblings, parents, etc Level of engagement is more important than the number of activities January 2010 Colorado State University Office of Admissions

The Process Complete applications are reviewed by individual readers; often according to recruitment territory. Each Reader:  Comments on Academic Rigor/Performance  Comments on Personal Qualities  Makes a recommendation for admission Reader enters comments, a decision and an assessment into an online form. Files are then routed to committee or to processing based on recommendation. January 2010 Colorado State University Office of Admissions

Today’s Process Review 3-5 files, as time allows Each file contains the following:  Cover sheet with general information  High School Transcript  Personal Statement (Essay)  Letter(s) of Recommendation  Any relevant supplemental information Each individual will read each file, make comments and indicate an admissions recommendation (in the space allowed on the cover sheet). Each small group will discuss the file and come to consensus Larger group discussion/Wrap up January 2010 Colorado State University Office of Admissions