the college admissions process, well-traveled students might have a world of advantage. That’s the word from education experts who say college applicants with inter- national travel experience gain additional consideration over other students with similar academic credentials. “Grades are just one factor college admissions officers look at when assessing applicants,” explains Debra Latta, Principal, State College Area High School, State College, Pa. “They’re also looking for well-rounded students who are involved, socially aware and who show potential to succeed in life. That’s where international travel comesin.” Latta recommends People to People Student Ambassador Pro- grams, which provide international educational opportunities to 5th through 12th grade students. The journeys offer hands-on cultural experiences, unique behind-the-scenes access to fascinating people and places, and amazing outdoor adventures. Whether they find themselves rappelling down castle walls in Scotland, visiting Anne Frank’s house in Amsterdam or meeting =. ey WP) People to People Student Ambas- sadors meet with the Queen of England during a British and Irish Heritage journey. Latta offers these additional tips for impressing the admissions committee: Be an Early Bird: Get in- volved in school activities, your community and cause-related global initiatives as soon aspossible. e Flex Your Passport Muscle: Participate in an international journey and promote and describe the experiences in college essays. Get Behind a Cause: Find a social issue that you are passionate about and get behindit. e Leave Your Backyard: Don’t turn your back on academic opportunities across the country sadors broaden their horizons while learning what it means to be a global citizen. In addition, or across the world. e Spring Break to Colleges: Start visiting colleges on your junior year spring break. Power in Numbers: Apply to more schools (experts recommendeight to 10) to keep a range of colleges open and to evaluate high school and college credit through the program. dentambassadors.org. world leaders, student ambas- students can earn transferable the best scholarship options. To learn more, visit www.stu
