<p>I don’t understand why people tend to always undervalue BC admissions. I just had an argument with a friend over whether BC is a selective school. I realize the word “safety” is relative to each candidate, but still - unless you have a >2300/4.0 I wouldn’t be quick to call BC a safety school. Perhaps because it is often confused with BU (which can be a safety). But, I think BC academics are on par with other top tier schools, in my opinion.</p>
<p>Dear ram0276 : I agree with your perspective. There seems to have been a rash of posts during this particular admissions season that have eluded to Boston College as a safety option.</p>
<p>Perhaps, Boston College’s position as a Top 30 university is lost on those considering the very elite institutions across the United States. After all, if you were to see your future as a top level Ivy League prospect, chances are that you would see anything in the Top 30 as a “sure fit”. Does this reflect a sense of entitlement or a lack of proper research into the numbers?</p>
<p>Second, there seems to be an overemphasis on hardcore numbers (which can be used to eliminate a candidate rather than accept a candidate). Some of the essay topics seemed superficial for the want of a better term; some suggested essays have not provided significant insight into one’s individual passions. With the importance of critical writing skills at Boston College, demonstrating a connection to Boston College has challenged many applicants with strong numbers this year.</p>
<p>Third and important for all our readers is to understand that College Confidential itself does provide a somewhat filtered (upwardly biased) view on admissions. Remember that there is some bias towards higher capabilities represented here. The contributors to these boards are typically stronger than most midpoint applicants. To that end, there are higher built in expectations for the admissions process both at Boston College and elsewhere.</p>
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<p>Just to add to scottj’s post…that connection has to be with the ideals of a Jesuit education (which is the idea behind the supplemental essay). Unfortunately, a lot of applicants spend countless hours on their main essay, and just breeze through a college’s supplemental – BIG mistake. The supplemental exists for a reason. Everything in the app matters.</p>