From Poems to a Start Up: How Anoushka aced LSE & NUS Admissions

Students looking to apply to top universities are usually overwhelmed. From the constant pressure of maintaining academics to finding the right extracurricular activities that generate interest, the process can be tedious. However, Anoushka’s journey shows that finding your own path is more than just grades. It's about building your own interests, discovering who you are as a person, and showcasing your various areas of interest in a multifaceted way. Turning her lifelong passion for reading into heartfelt anecdotes really helped to capture the attention of admission committees worldwide.

From Reading as a Passion to a Powerful Extracurricular

Anoushka’s fascination with reading began at a young age. She started a book club when she was just 7 years old in 2014, creating a community that made reading feel like a fun activity and a form of hobby rather than being seen as an academic commodity or a task. By age 9, she had written 52 poems, demonstrating not only interest but consistent effort in the field of literature. This passion grew into a startup she founded in 2020, Biblioverse. Its purpose was to make reading an engaging and community-driven experience. 

Along with this, she also explored diverse interests, including sports, drama, and research. In the eighth grade, she fought for the creation of a girls' football team in her school, challenging authority and showing leadership skills. Later, she collaborated on research papers to further pursue her academic curiosity and show initiative. 

Despite the chaos that comes with board exams, Anoushka stayed motivated and passionate about her goals. Through every challenge, she chose consistency over comfort, a reminder that genuine dedication always shines through. Even when times are tough, dedication is what truly sets a person apart.

How She Tailored her Profile to US, UK & Singapore Colleges

Anoushka’s college applications really highlight the importance of tailoring efforts to different universities. While UK schools like LSE valued academic research and intellectual curiosity, US universities preferred her multifaceted achievements, including her startup and creative pursuits. Canadian and Singaporean institutions also focused on character and specific areas of interest, broadcasting the need for a standout presentation of oneself.

Throughout this application journey, our team at Ivies Chase You guided her in developing a cohesive narrative by helping her connect her accomplishments to her academics, encompassing them in her story. By focusing on 4–5 strong areas of interest that she genuinely cared about, she could demonstrate her passion for those interests rather than taking on meaningless activities to showcase a ‘vast’ profile.

Anoushka's Advice to Students

When asked about sharing advice to students beginning to prepare their college portfolio for aiming at the top universities, Anoushka highlighted the following:

1. Follow Your True Interests: One of the most important factors to consider during college preparation is not to select activities just to fill your resume. Pursue what genuinely excites you.

2. Consistency Matters: Deep interest and sustained engagement often matter more than a long list of short-lived superficial achievements.

3. Step Outside Your Comfort Zone: Be willing to challenge norms, take risks, and explore new areas.

4. Tailor Applications Thoughtfully: Research each university’s priorities — some value academic research, others look for creative or entrepreneurial achievements.

5. Reflect on Experiences: Use personal essays to highlight growth and learning from failures.

Anoushka’s story is also a reminder that early initiatives, nurtured over years, can become signature achievements that set you apart in applications. From poetry and startups to sports and research, her multifaceted profile helped her shine in a competitive landscape. Her journey is inspiring not just because of the universities that she received admits from, but because of the thoughtful, consistent effort behind her profile. For students and parents looking to understand what makes a college application stand out, her story demonstrates that building a unique, passion-driven narrative is key.

Inspired by Anoushka? Build YOUR College Narrative

If Anoushka’s journey inspires you, and you’re ready to build a powerful narrative of your own, our team is here to guide you. Book a free call with us to explore your interests, refine your activities, and understand what top colleges truly look for. Limited slots available.