<p>I'm starting this thread because I feel like if I post on other threads ranting about my life after January 15, these threads will quickly become clogged up with my drivel (for example, see Silverstag's "Countdown to 2013 Decisions". I posted 4-5 posts in one page!)</p>
<p>I've been busy these past weeks, dancing and preparing for an art show. Orchestra has been driving me bonkers-in a good way. But a few days ago, I talked with another fellow applicant in my school (by the way, we have a solid 10 people in one class applying. I love competition.) Ever since January 15, our lips have loosened a bit. We aren't so uptight or secretive anymore, so I got some honest reflections.</p>
<p>Now the applicant to whom I was talking to (let's call this person M) has a great transcript-all honors-but mediocre extracurriculars. However, what truly shone was M's amazing charisma; throughout my years with M, I was always slightly envious of M's knack of making the atmosphere welcoming, yet very serious. M could talk about various topics and make them seem fun and cool and you're hanging onto every word. You can tell that M is well-versed in the subjects M talks about. On the other hand, when I talk, others fall asleep.</p>
<p>Another applicant to which I talked to (let's call this person F) was more reserved; F took a while to open up and talk. However, F has an amazing transcript. When I say amazing, I mean it. The grades are easily top 1% of our school, and the extracurriculars show a supernatural level of dedication. F has picked one or two generic extracurriculars-nothing very interesting-but the level of commitment will catch the eye of even the most cynical.</p>
<p>Compared to these two extremes, I feel mediocre, normal. What do I have? I don't have an engaging personality, nor do I have stellar stats.</p>
<p><em>sigh</em> Now that's all said and done, please excuse my self-pity party. I just needed an outlet in which to express my emotion. I guess every applicant has his/her days...this is one of mine.</p>
<p>There’s no point in comparing yourself to a few other applicants, as you can’t know how the schools percieved you or them. Try not to think about chancing yourself, however hard that may be.</p>
<p>^ I know, I know <em>smiles sheepishly</em> But the impulse to compare myself to others is overpowering at times. Don’t we all want to compare ourselves with others, to see how far along we are? To see if we need to approve? To alleviate stress?</p>
<p>I am on a cynical satirical rampage right now. I’ve just torn through 1984 and Animal Farm, both by George Orwell :)</p>
<p>You have a strong insight that enables you to see inside people and tell the difference. You know yourself inside out. M and F may be able to appeal to BCs while you may not. But life is much bigger than just going to BS. Trust me. You seem candid and bright. And if BC are not dumb, they will appreciate your such strength. Cheer up!</p>
<p>Both brilliant books. It sounds like the waiting is doing you good!</p>
<p>Thanks for the encouragement, patronyork! I really appreciate it, and it’s cheered me up somewhat. I’ll also be sure to keep that in mind!</p>
<p>UKgirl23, I agree wholeheartedly! Orwell has a talent for writing novels with layers upon layers of materials. It’s really fun reflecting and analyzing his work. Do you have other book recommendations to pass the time?</p>
<p>If you’re into Orwell, I loved Homage to Catalonia, an autobiography of his time in the Spanish civil war 
Birdsong by Sebastien Faulks is my personal favourite, but quite different from Orwell. I can’t think of anything similar at all though :)</p>
<p>^ And now it’s off to the local library to track these books down-! :)</p>
<p>Have a look at this if you’re interested in Orwell: [BBC</a> Radio 4 - The Real George Orwell](<a href=“http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01pyz0z]BBC”>BBC Radio 4 - The Real George Orwell) I’m not sure how much it will let you listen to, but there’s stuff to read as well :)</p>
<p>I just went to the site, and wow is there a lot of material to go through O_O This will definitely keep me occupied until March 9 (maybe even later); thanks!</p>
<p>No problem Being a chronic procrastinator has its uses at times…</p>