<p>I visited Vanderbilt this weekend and really liked it. I think I will be applying early decision. Going to try and give a quick summary of my app - what are my chances of getting in?</p>
<p>Academics: I am a senior at a small private school in Salt Lake City, UT. I have a 3.87 unweighted GPA and a 31 on the ACT. I've taken AP Euro and AP US History (700 SAT II), and am currently taking AP Calculus AB and AP English. I have taken a handful of honors classes as well. (My school does not offer many AP or honors classes, to give a bit of context) I have taken 4 years of Japanese and have received my school's high-honors awards for three years running. (school does not rank)</p>
<p>Outside of the classroom: I have been a percussionist for both the school band and orchestra, as well as played in our school's percussion group for 4 years. I have played the guitar for 10 years and drumset/varying percussion instruments for 7 years. I have been payed to play in bands and have done many gigs outside of school. I have interned as a graphics design artist at a learning software company for a summer, and worked at a landscaping job this past summer. I have taken photography for 5 years and am now in AP Photography. My work has been recognized in the Scholastic Art & Writing competition, with one of my photographs winning best in state for our region. (Roughly six states) I have also been involved in Community Service since Junior year, and have been a representative for my class. I have worked with various organizations in the Salt Lake Valley for community service.</p>
<p>Miscellaneous: My teacher recs should be very strong. I have known these teachers for years both in an outside of the classroom, and are known for writing great letters. I also have a good relationship with my college counsellor and she will be able to give a good overview of me as an active part of the community. I my essay is coming along very well, and will be working with both teachers and peers to refine it in the comming weeks. I will also be meeting with the Vanderbilt admissions counselor for my region, and will be able to put a face to my application.</p>
<p>I hope this hasn't been too boring to read. With that being said, how would you chance me at ED for Vanderbilt?</p>
<p>I think you’ve done a lot of great things throughout high school- you definitely have a lot to be proud of. One thing to keep in mind is that colleges like to see depth over breadth. It’s great that you’ve tried so many things out, but try to keep your ECs and things focused. Your stats are pretty good, although I think the ACT might be a bit on the low side. Best of luck</p>
<p>Thanks adem - in all honesty though, I think my EC’s are fairly focused. (Photography an music, mainly) Unless I am approaching EC’s incorrectly?</p>
<p>And yeah, it is a reach for sure! I am really nervous about applying…I’m sure almost anyone applying to Vandy would be. I like to think I have a fighting chance but…who knows, right?</p>
<p>I can’t tell you about your chances, but reading this makes me hope we both get in and make friends! I’ve never heard of AP Photography, but I wish my school had it. I’ve been an avid photographer since middle school.</p>
<p>Your ACT is 31 and that is propably in the bottom25th percentile if you are ED. Even that I think is 32 or above. Rest, including your Ecs doesn’t make up for your poor scores. Sorry, I agree with others it is a low reach or reach for you. In all honesty I have been monitoring some ED results which are trickling in say, W&M, Baylor etc. people with stats not expecting to get in are getting in. Maybe this is the Year of Underdog.</p>