5 Ways to Make Your LEAP Emerge Application Shine!
In 2022, when I was sitting at my desk, staring at the LEAP Emerge application, I remember thinking to myself, "In a sea of thousands, how can I make myself stand out?”
Of course, everyone’s stories are different and we all lead in ways that are uniquely ours. There is only one of you- no copies! But in a highly competitive setting, the small, fine details matter. An indent, a line break, a data point, or a different word could make all the difference in how your application is read and how you are perceived. These small details convey intentionality and care.
I reflected on my own experience, and thought about things I would have done differently. And while the Emerge program is different now, its soul is still the same. We are still looking for leaders from all backgrounds, trying to make their mark.
So, from one Emerge big sister to you: here are 5 ways to make your application shine.
Start Early!
I know, I know. You have midterms, and finals, and your thesis and club meetings, and it’s not even due until March anyways…I get it. I was once a college student too. But truly, the best way to make your application stand out is to give yourself ample time to research, ideate, write, and edit. Not to mention, submit on time! Even if it’s just 5 minutes a day, give yourself some time to think deeply about how you want to present yourself, or what you want to write about. Come up with some outlines. Think about some anecdotes you can sneak in.
Show, Don’t Tell.
This is a big one- every year I read Emerge applications, I always come across ten to twenty personal statements that could have been so stellar if they showed what their words wanted to say. For example, instead of saying “I am a team player”, tell me about a time that you were! Anecdotes give us a holistic view of you and the actions you would take situationally. It let us know how you think. Anyone can say that they are a leader, but when have they acted like one?
Tailor Your Resume
This tip goes beyond this program application. Your resume should always be customized and tailored to the opportunity you are applying for, because its function is to show how qualified you are for that specific role. Always research the role; look for verbiage that is in the “ideal applicant” section and showcase experiences that make you a shining example. Use data points to show the fruits of your labor, action verbiage to detail your involvement, and format your resume in a way that is easily accessible but still has a personal touch. You have the experience, you just need to know how to frame it.
Choose Your Recommender Carefully
Let me give you a scenario- I have two people I would ask to write my letter of recommendation:
Subject A is a decorated Nobel Laureate and Professor who I’ve taken 2 classes with but have only spoken to in group Office Hours. They know me by my name and my major, and might know that I lead in a student organization.
Subject B is my mentor at a local non-profit that serves underprivileged youth. I volunteer at this non-profit during the weekends, and get lunch with my mentor bimonthly. They know my hopes and dreams, my personal life, and have seen me organize tutoring days for the youth that we serve.
Who would give me a more valuable letter of recommendation?
If you said Subject B, ding ding ding!
Your letters of recommendation should allow us to get to know you in aspects and facets that we haven’t been able to grasp from your personal statement or resume. A recommender who knows you well will have the ability to vouch for your character, and can showcase your achievements from a different perspective. Choose your recommender wisely!
Ask Questions & Get to Know Our Team!
Are there aspects of the application you’re fuzzy on? Want more details on what we’re looking for? Meet with us! I’ve seen so many applicants misunderstand questions that could have been easily remedied by reaching out for clarification. Don’t be afraid to chat with us, we’re here to help you!
I’d highly encourage all applicants to attend our info session on February 12th, 2026 at 11AM PT. You can RSVP here.
I hope that my advice is helpful to you. I am so excited for you to take the next step towards building your career!
