3.56 GPA For Harvey Mudd w/ Good Test Scores and Extracurriculars?

Chance Me / Match Me!
1

<p>Hey guys. So, first of all here's my academic record-
3.56/5.0 GPA (AP Classes are 5.0, Regular are 4.0)
2360 SAT (800 Math, 800 Writing, 760 CR)
5 on the Computer Science AP, 4 on AP US History AP, 3 on English Composition.</p>

<p>My extracurriculars-
Published work on Lunar Crater Chains via a competition I took second nationally in with a team of 4 others.
Eagle Scout in order of the Arrow.
Won awards for my programming.
AP Scholar.
In Go Club, Astronomy Club, and Ultimate Frisbee Club. I was in debate for two years. I've just started fencing.
Volunteered in Costa Rica for a few weeks
Backpacked through New Mexico, Canoed through the Boundary Waters.</p>

<p>Here's my question. Does my GPA ruin my admissions chances? I've done well in some classes (98 in Computer Science, A in US History, A in Bio, A in Calculus, etc.) and terrible in others (D In 2nd semester of Chem, B in 1st semester, C's in Pre-Cal, etc.). I have good test scores and other things, but I am pulled down by terrible grades. They were mainly caused by my lack of Organization and ADHD, but nonetheless they are there.</p>

<p>I have one school that I am dying to get into: Harvey Mudd. I've emailed faculty, and talked to admissions. I'm applying Early Decision for Computer Science, and I am really anxious. My sister is a Senior there who has done well (Job with Microsoft already.) </p>

<p>Is there any chance of me getting in to Harvey Mudd Early Decision with this GPA, given my extracurriculars and test scores? </p>

<p>If there isn't, is there anything possible I can do? I am taking some of the hardest courses in my school this year and doing much better (All A's), so I might be able to get my GPA up to a 3.6 or maybe even 3.7 by the end of the semester. That doesn't move me out of the 2nd quartile for my school.</p>

<p>What can I possibly do to improve my chances of admission? I really am in love with this school. I've visited 4 times, and have loved it every time. Their honor code, policies, and everything are totally in line with me. But my academic record is sub-par at best for them.</p>

<p>Thank you for helping.</p>

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<p>Is the 3.56 your unweighted GPA? If so, don’t fret so much; if it is in fact weighted, you might be in trouble. The adcoms will probably wonder why there is such a huge gap between your performance in school and your obviously fantastic test scores, but I would say that your demonstrated interest by applying ED and your interesting ECs might make up for it, giving you a very reasonable shot. Good luck!</p>

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<p>By the way SAT 2 scores are VERY important for Mudd as well. Did you take them too? If I were you, I think that you should focus on your essays. It is critically important that you zero in on why Harvey Mudd and build an outstanding case. If ADHD has truly been your nemesis than state how you were able to overcome the condition to succeed. Essays allow you to frame things as you see them. Your standardized test scores put you in the running, but your grades are low for the school. Poor grades specifically in chem and calc do not bode well. However, that is all water under the bridge now.</p>

<p>This is what the administrators said to us: (1) they look for kids who push the envelope with academics – intellectual curiosity is very important to them. (2) they want to see competitive engagement at the academic level your lunar crater chains work will bode well – emphasize this big time. (3) they are looking for “fit” and they determine this best when you go for an interview on campus. Do it. You may also want to do a sleep over and make sure the admissions folks know that you did it. (4) pump your sister for insider info on how to get in and have her put a good word in for you.</p>