Am I just kidding myself?

Colleges and Universities A-Z American University
1

I’m a high school senior and American University is one of my top choices, but I know I’m way below their average.
GPA: 3.0 (I started fresh and soph year with almost all B’s and C’s, but last year I got almost all A’s, made honor roll, etc. There is a clear upward trend, and my essay is about what made my attitude towards grades change)
ACT: 27 (34,32,23,21)
EC’s: Nothing freshman year, art club sophomore year, junior I did Filipino Club and Art Club, and this year I was head of the props department for my school play, vice president of gaming club, joined art club, campus ministry, and all four years I did theater outside of school. Junior and senior year I volunteered occasionally at an animal shelter, and last month I got a seasonal job as an actor in a haunted house and I currently work as a janitor at a gym.
Awards: Won the Word Wright Competition Junior year, a schoolwide reading comprehension contest

I just want to know if I have a decent or possible chance of admission. I haven’t visited yet but I’m going to soon, and I figured if I have no chance I shouldn’t waste money going up to visit. Thank you.

2

Demonstrated interest is one of the top criteria that American look at, so visiting can only improve your chances. You could also apply ED2 as the ED2 acceptance rate is above 80%. The regular admission rate is 23%, so it’s pretty competitive RD. If you are in a financial position that will allow you to ED, I would encourage you to do so.

3

I’m not in a position to say whether or not you are a competitive applicant, but just a funny and odd tidbit: my admissions officer for AU came to my school and I got to meet with him and talk about the school, and apparently a ton of theatre kids go there. Something he mentioned in terms of what they look for in an applicant is fit and he regarded that as “fitting in with the student body” so I guess being a theatre kid helps!! :slight_smile: