<p>SAT I: 710 V, 780 M, 700 W (definitely retaking)
SAT II: 800 Math II, 800 Physics, taking Literature in the fall
AP: AP Calc BC 5, AP Physics B 5, AP Econ Macro 4, AP Eng Lang 4
GPA: 4.0 unweighted
School recognition: Summa cum laude 9th and 10th (been homeschooled since 11th)
ECs: violin takes up most of my time w/ lessons and lots of orchestras, student government, yearbook
I'm homeschooled because I wouldn't have much opportunity with math or science in any public or private school around me. I take classes from EPGY, CTY, and have taken basic classes from the community college.</p>
<p>I realize that i don't have any real science projects, research, awards or other science EC. I have never had an opportunity for any of that stuff, but I was wondering if that will hurt my chances.</p>
<p>That's the same dilemma I'm in too. I have the scores for the most part, but no science-heavy ECs. It'd be nice to hear how that would factor in.</p>
<p>Don't use the "my school doesn't have it so I can't do it mentality." Just because your school (or homeschool) does not have a science club, Mu Alpha Theta, offer AMC, or give you an organized science/math EC to participate in at school, doesn't mean you can't do it. ECs don't have to be done at school. If you really, honestly, truly like this kind of stuff, you'll do it anyway, because it's fun for you to do. Sure, you can build up a paper resume with NHS, Math Club, Science Club, or other school clubs, but how does that make you any different than the thousands of others who do/did the same thing as you?</p>
<p>Sorry for the rant, and I'm no master of chances, but I'd say you'd really have to show how violin makes you stand out of the crowd and show you would fit in at Caltech. Caltech is an Institute of Technology, so they want students who show great aptitude and passion for science, math, and engineering. You may be plenty smart, and play the violin quite well, but how can Caltech know you would fit in there and contribute to the world from your application? There are thousands with the same (or better) test scores and grades. Sorry to disappoint, but there are plenty of other applicants who are just as impressive academically as you, who can show great aptitude and passion for math/science/engineering.</p>