<p>Rank 2/750ish at the time I applied - I don't remember my gpa
SAT: math 800 cr 800 writing 770
SAT II: chemistry 800 physics 800 math II 800</p>
<p>Keep in mind that SAT ranges for colleges are more representative than one person's stats. Even my scores are in the top quartile or so. Also, I was never trying to make the case that flawless essays will overcome bad numbers. However, at some point, your SAT scores are what they are and you don't have any control over that part in your application. It's the parts that you DO have control over, like essays, that need all the attention. This thread is meant to help you make the most out of your application and your case, whatever that may be. The fact is that many people that apply to prestigious schools have numbers high enough to be admitted but still get rejected. How you write your essays and how you choose to present your information in your application is what helps you stand out from the thousands of other applicants with similar stats and qualities.</p>
<p>I agree completely with your last post. Anything in the 700 range gets a check mark... then on to class rigor... check mark.... then on to class rank top 3% or so, check mark.... then on to ECs.</p>
<p>It makes no difference to the adcom if you are at 700 or 740 or 780... just my personal opinion. Each of them gets the same check mark and then on to discover WHO THE APPLICANT IS. And this of course is where the essays and teacher recs play a huge role.</p>
<p>P.S. Passion is what they look for, because they aren't interested in students who are robotic in their approach to classes and tests... you know the type... they study all hours, do great in school, but are boring as hell in real life.</p>
<p>I would say not all colleges are equally good at getting to know applicants personally through their application but Stanford definitely makes an effort in their application. They ask for a fair amount of supplemental essays as well as short answer "getting-to-know-you" type questions (they ask for things like your favorite book and movie quote - contrary to popular belief they aren't testing you to see that you put down the "right" thing - they actually want to get to know you!) Of all the schools I applied to, I definitely feel like Stanford did the best job of getting to know me as well as all of its applicants.</p>
<p>Your experience is really helpful. Would you share your essay topics here? I really want to go to Stanford but having a hard time with the essays. thanks</p>
<p>My main essay was about my passion for physics and my extracurricular essay was about my experience in theatre. Actually, all of my supplemental essays somehow dealt with my passion for theatre, physics, or both. I guess that makes me pretty two dimensional?</p>
<p>Thanks for sharing this!
I'm wondering if Stanford really doesn't read resumes? Did you send one in? I sent a really long one in, and then I heard that Stanford doesn't read them. Do you know if adcoms get upset if applicants send them?</p>