Background Info/ Employment History

[Bov82]

Hello!

I'm currently completing an application for North Carolina, and ran into a minor stumbling point. As part of their app, they require an "Employment History and Other Background Information", which includes an "Honors & Awards" section. The problem: I don't really have any honors or awards to list, except formaking the Dean's list (3.3 GPA or better) in college and graduating Cum Laude. Are those academic honors pertinent to list? If so, how would you word it?

Thanks for your help!
Chris

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear Chris,

I would not sweat a lack of Honors and Awards to include if you have an otherwise strong application. I do think it is appropriate to include Dean's List or graduating with honors such as "cum laude". I think you word them as they are "graduated cum laude in 2000; based on academic performance".

Good luck,
Lisa

[Bov82]

Hi Lisa,

Thanks for the feedback!

-Chris

[Jay Allen]

I agree with Lisa--it's not an important part of the application. It's far more important to come up with specific stories in your essays that demonstrate your skills, your passions, and your aspirations. Most Admissions officials know that it's very hard to decipher the real value of a college award. For that reason, the story behind the award is always more valuable as a direct insight into the applicant.

Don't be apologetic at all--just stick to showcasing your own strengths!


Best,


Jay