GPA and test scores

I have a GPA of 5.0 out of 5.0. Even though I scored 7.5 on the IELTS, I faced some challenges with the computer-based format, which I didn't quite understand. Nonetheless, this wasn't a concern for Minerva as they don't require the IELTS. Instead, they require their own English language test on their platform.

I opted not to take the SAT. I realized that getting a score above 1450 would demand extensive daily practice and consistent improvement of English and math abilities. I preferred to invest more time in my extracurricular activities rather than dedicating it to SAT preparation.

Extracurricular activities

Freelancer-journalist, The Steppe — online progressive magazine about social issues and lifestyle, based in Almaty. Researched & published 42 articles covering themes of women empowerment, social issues, and the development of modern Kazakhstan; 120000 total views.
Founder, CEO, editor-in-chief, Zhas&Healthy — Instagram blog, school club with 200+ informative posts on healthy lifestyles for youth. Recruited 50 students, administered the chain of work; currently, coordinate six staff writers. Held webinars and info sessions about health.
Leading organizer, creative director, Republican Project healthy marathon (Zhas&Healthy with support of US Embassy). Organized online science project competition among 300+ youth from 14 cities, and 47 schools in Kazakhstan, developed a unique format of 3-part tasks.
English language and literature teacher to 1st-graders, Uide.oqy (sponsored by U.S. Embassy), an online tutoring project. Customized educational materials and conducted online classes for children of medical workers and low-income families during the pandemic.
Mentee, active participant, Mentorship.kz—a 6-week program that connected students with international experts in various spheres. Arranged meetings with a journalist, Wen Lei, and completed high-difficulty tasks on types of journalism: news, reviews, columns, and feature writing.

Advice for applicants

Understanding yourself is key. Find out what truly sparks your interest rather than jumping on popular activities like volunteering or Olympiads. Not everyone fits into these molds, and you might end up investing time in something you don't love, leading to disappointment and fatigue. It's important to figure out what you're passionate about early on, even if it's a broad area rather than a specific job.

It's also beneficial to be around people who uplift and support you. Positive influences can keep you motivated and on track. And while extracurriculars are important, don't neglect your academics. Especially for those applying internationally, good grades can make a big difference. So, focus on your studies and make sure they reflect your capabilities. Don't get caught up in the prestige of big-name schools or countries. Sometimes people aim for the US or Europe because of the hype, but it's more important to find what's right for you.

For guidance on college admissions, look to trusted experts. In Kazakhstan, Aizhankul is a go-to source for reliable advice. There's also a helpful YouTube series called "Senim" that showcases interviews with students who've successfully navigated the college application process.