I go to a small private school with 20 kids in my class. I will be graduating number 1 in my class.
On my transcript it says 1/20, but that also puts me in the top 4%. How will colleges see this?
I personally don’t think getting valedictorian of 20 kids is that impressive (my parents think differently), but I just need some feedback.
Is my rank seen equivalent as a person ranked 40/1000? Or the same as 1/1000? Or somewhere in between?
Dos it matter? Valedictorian is a great honor - no matter how big your school is. Its not your fault the class is small. It won’t look bad - but is not as impressive as being top 5% of a very large very competitive school - but is still impressive. It won’t keep you out of top schools, but the rest of your application could be the part that gets you in.
You’re mistaken if you feel that that numerical fact means anything to colleges. Congrats on your accomplishments so far
As within the top 10%.
IMO, depending upon your test scores, once you cross the threshold of what the college finds acceptable, other factors will come into play, with your essays, recs, EC"s, etc. Ranking 1 vs. 2, or top 6% vs. top 4%? No difference.
Most HS’s will not have named val/sal by the time apps are submitted, so for admissions, you’re right, probably not that impressive. It’s a nice accomplishment, but it’s one that probably only you and/or your parents will care about now and in the future.
Ahh I appreciate the input everyone!