Can CAS & EE help me to get into Uni ?
Many students have asked me whether CAS (Creativity, Action and Service), and EE (Extended Essay) are useful for getting into university. Today, on the YouTube Channel we were fortunate to have Magda from Unifymecounselling.com to help us to answer this question. To watch the video please click here.
Magda has already worked with ToKToday, to watch the previous video with her (How can ToK help my Uni application ?) click here, or read the blog post at this link.
The main points from the discussion on CAS / EE & Uni applications:
Q1: Can Extended Essay help me with my uni / higher education application?
Extended Essay can significantly benefit higher education applications, demonstrating university-level research skills and subject-specific knowledge.
Similar to the UK's EPQ, the Extended Essay showcases self-initiated, subject-focused work, enhancing university applications.
While not mandatory, doing the Extended Essay in a higher-level subject is recommended, allowing for in-depth exploration and knowledge expansion.
Extended Essay achievements can be highlighted in UK applications, CVs, and motivational letters, emphasizing academic preparation and potential.
Q2 - Do you have any tips for students aspiring to a high grade in EE ?
Choose a research topic that genuinely interests you, focusing on inner curiosity and enjoyment.
Apply the 80-20 rule, emphasizing 80% research and 20% writing; thorough research forms the core of a successful extended essay.
Start by immersing yourself in extensive research to become an expert in the topic, enabling better argumentation and exploration of various perspectives.
Pay close attention to details, including formatting, page numbers, and writing a valuable reflection, as these aspects contribute significantly to the overall quality.
Utilize resources like JSTOR if available in your school for comprehensive research.
Maintain open communication with your assigned supervisor, seeking guidance and building a collaborative relationship for effective support.
Q3 - What is the value of CAS for an HE application ?
CAS is a crucial part of the IB core, often undervalued due to its lack of exams, leading some to want to complete it quickly.
CAS is highly valuable for higher education applications, especially in competitive scenarios, as it showcases well-roundedness, impact on communities, and development of key skills.
Combining creativity, action, and service offers a unique chance to initiate and expand projects, demonstrating leadership qualities and making a positive impact.
Students have been accepted into universities based on their extracurricular activities despite lower academic scores, emphasizing the significance of CAS in university admissions
If you want to contact Magda for help with uni applications, educational decisions, counselling support her email is Magda@Unifymecounselling.com
Magda's other social media contacts are in the slide above / left.
We are starting to look at wider DP issues than solely just ToK this year. If you have questions, or suggestions for other topics that we could cover, please leave them in the comments section below.
Stay Toktastic my friends,
Daniel, Bangkok, Sept 2023