MIT Case Study

INTRO

“The first day of winter vacation ushered in the release of MIT results. My father and I had a video connection and were waiting for the results together. Dad constantly prepared me mentally and let me accept any outcome. He seemed calm, but I felt that he was more nervous than me. During our chat, the results came out a few minutes early. I saw tears flashing in my father's eyes, and I was surrounded by sudden joy. At that moment, I knew, I made it!”

STUDENT SUMMARY
In today’s blog, we’ll take a look at a student from the 2023-2024 application season. He is one  of the 8 Chinese students admitted to MIT in the early application stage and below, a quick preview at his basic stats. 

High school: Princeton International School of Mathematics and Science

Standardized scores: SAT 1550+, TOEFL 114, 7 AP

Major: Mathematics

Main activities: ROSS mathematics camp, artificial intelligence laboratory, scientific research, engineering summer school, outdoor summer camp, environmental non-profit organization volunteers, etc.

Honorary Awards: USAMO, Yau North American Division, Mathematics Championship, DMM Duke Mathematics Conference, etc.

His passion for mathematics is deeply rooted in its boundless potential and profound implications, seeing it not merely as a subject but as a mode of thought with versatile applications in problem-solving and world exploration. From elementary school competitions to advanced AP classes in high school, he delved into various branches of mathematics, rigorously deriving proofs and tackling complex problems with enthusiasm. Attending the ROSS mathematics camp in eleventh grade provided him with a profound understanding of foundational theorems and the systematic establishment of the number system, sparking a commitment to questioning and exploring the reasoning behind mathematical principles. Furthering his mathematical journey, he undertook a project on Knot Theory, discovering the importance of persistence, collaboration, and creativity in solving meaningful problems. Additionally, his internship in an artificial intelligence laboratory exposed him to the practical application of mathematical principles, reinforcing the flexibility and transformative potential of mathematics in shaping technological advancements and societal progress.

To this day, he vividly recalls the sense of helplessness and frustration that consumed him as he grappled with crafting his college application essays just a few months ago. Concepts like sincerity, individuality, and uniqueness felt intangible until he found guidance from Endurable Education CEO  Jason, who helped unearth hidden experiences and insights he could integrate into his writing. Particularly impactful were the outdoor adventures he embarked on during his twelfth-grade summer vacation, transformed into compelling narratives under Jason's mentorship. Writing evolved from a mere application requirement into a means of self-expression, offering him a profound sense of satisfaction and fulfillment as he translated his experiences and thoughts into words.

Through the creative process, he encountered numerous obstacles but emerged with valuable lessons. Learning to perceive and interpret experiences from varied angles, he tapped into his inner truths with confidence, unreservedly sharing his authentic self with others rather than conforming to expectations. This journey of self-discovery through writing empowered him to embrace his uniqueness and articulate his story with clarity and conviction.

OUR ROLE AND STUDENT WORK SUMMARY
Although he began working with Jason with the aim of refining his application documents, he initially felt it might be too late to enhance his activities during the second semester of grade 11. Nonetheless, Jason wholeheartedly offered suggestions for potential activities to bolster his background. Following Jason's guidance, he engaged in community service and secured an internship in an artificial intelligence laboratory, among other endeavors. Without Jason's persistent guidance, he acknowledges he wouldn't have made significant progress. Recognizing Jason's exacting standards for documents, he gradually comprehended his intentions and diligently revised and polished his materials accordingly, resulting in substantial improvements. Subsequently, receiving an interview invitation from MIT, he underwent coaching and mock interviews with Jason to prepare more effectively.

His other teacher, characterized by her seriousness and responsibility, played a pivotal role as a liaison between Jason and himself, facilitating meetings and communication. She patiently addressed his queries whenever he struggled to grasp Jason's instructions, fostering a trusting relationship within their team. Moreover, she oversaw his activities and application progress, meticulously managing application systems and materials. Following the submission of his early application, he advanced to the semi-finals of the Qiu Prize. Her conscientiousness and diligence provided a sense of assurance throughout the application process, enabling him to pursue his goals with greater focus.

ENDURABLE COMMENTARY
In the process of preparing for college applications, even if we have a complete plan, it does not mean that it can be implemented perfectly. So when the original plan doesn't go as expected, it's important to proactively solve the problem , find other ways to achieve the same goal, or try new activities and projects to enrich our experience and background. I took the USAMO exam in the 10th grade and got good scores. However, I missed the opportunity to enter the USAMO in the 11th grade because I was not prepared (I didn’t pass the cutoff). I couldn’t go any further, so I chose to shift my focus to scientific research. In the end, I With this scientific research, he entered the semi-finals of the Qiu Prize.

The key is to always believe in your own abilities and potential, and to pursue your goals relentlessly. Only in this way can we continue to grow, learn, and ultimately realize our dreams.

If you loved this article or learned a little bit about our students and process for helping them along their academic goals, we hope you’ll consider scheduling a meeting with us today, so we can get to know you better!