<p>I didn't know about this website until recently and every time I visited, I was very surprised to see how many applicants as well as their parents were concerned about the chances of getting into the schools they wanted. Getting into the right school is very important. </p>
<p>But how do we know which is the 'right' school for our dear child? It has been extremely difficult for me to figure that out. I have sent a few PMs to former/current parents as well as alum/students of the schools that my child has applied. And I really appreciate their valuable advice and inputs. They have been very helpful. </p>
<p>What concerns me most is NOT whether my child is accepted, but how the school of our choice turns out to be the right one a few years after. </p>
<p>The reason I want my child to go to a BS is that I believe the BS education will hopefully help him stand alone, make his own decision and learn the value of community he belongs to. As such, I hope he will have learned to be independent, co-oprative and competitive. If he ends up at a good college, I would feel very happy. But if not, I would still be very happy when I know my child learns to be like that. I have witnessed so many people who went to the top colleges and were unable to lead an average life as a good citizen and as a parent. </p>
<p>Since my child completed his application, we spend more time on trying to see if there is a fit between the schools and himself. I am also trying to have him understand that if he fails to receive any acceptance from the schools, it is not going to be the end of the world. I am telling him that it doesn't mean he is a loser. </p>
<p>It is surprising to see kids with almost perfect SSAT scores, GPAs and EC are often denied by the top schools. It is even more surprising to see them denied at the second-tier schools. Kids with lower scores often ends up at the best schools and I came to believe that the schools have their own criteria of admission. They have been doing this for more than 50 years and I am sure they know what they are doing. </p>
<p>So, my advice to the applicants... do not be overly confident. Do not be worried too much. BS should not be the goal of your young life. It should be a tool to achieve your long time goal whatever it is. </p>
<p>Lastly, I wish everyone who posted here their chance will hear a good news. I mean it as much as I want my child to be accepted!</p>