<p>I am interested in applying to Stanford. I expect to have an excellent GPA and test scores. I am good in Science, Math and History. I am not too much into ECs. I have been working at Red Cross for the last 2 years. I am in the 10th grade now. Any suggestions for me from people who made it to Stanford.</p>
<p>try and get leadership positions in those clubs...its not how many clubs you have that matters, it's what you do in those clubs that's important...</p>
<p>i only had one major club, but i had leadership positions for two years and put a lot of time into it...one of their essay questions is about which activity was the most meaningful to you and if you've spent a lot of time on a club and it did have some sort of impact on you, then you should have plenty to write for that essay...</p>
<p>Any other suggestions for students like me from other successful applicants?</p>
<p>Although it mainly depends on what kind of situation you are in, you do not necessarily have to have that many ECs to get into Stanford. ECs, I consider, are simply tools to evaluate your personal qualities. Of course, you can show your personal sides by writing very good application essays.</p>
<p>I was worried about the lack of impressive ECs before I applied to Stanford. But, the best advice I can give you is, although it's mundane, be yourself. Do not try to be involved in some activity that you have absolutely not interest in. That is not the point of ECs and if you join various ECs at shallow levels, it will simply show your lack of committment and depth in your personality. </p>
<p>Hence, if you like the Red Cross, get involved more actively! As zik has mentioned, leadership positions can never count against you. If you are to start new activities, why don't you try those related your favorite subject areas, such as science - there are many of those around. As you are still in the early stage of the college preparation process, I believe that there are a lot you can do now - but don't forget that the entire point of ECs is that they are the activities you are willing to be actively involved in. I'm sure the Stanford admissions officers can see the difference.</p>