<p>I am a student at Deerfield.<br>
I got in because I had strong grades, etc. for sure, but so do about 90% of the applicants (the 10% that don’t get in too because they are so rich they buy their way in or they get in for sports). My SSAT scores were terrible, but I had a fantastic interview. Most importantly, I had really unique extracurricular activities. I can assure you that Deerfield wants to see that you have developed a passion for soemthing: a sport, community service, etc. etc. I would say that if your SSAT scores were really bad, then study a lot for them but if they were anywhere above the bottom 40% I would leave them alone. They don’t care as much about those scores as you would think. Find a passion, get an interesting job, excel at a sport, start a club, etc. etc. That is what they want to see.<br>
Also, you have to present yourself well. Introduce yourself to the interviewer and to the admissions officers, look them in the eye, shake their hands firmly, etc. Ask intelligent questions. They want to see that you have potential. It’s hard to get in, but it is possible. And really, do something that INTERESTS you, don’t just study for SSATs all summer. Good luck!!</p>