applying with a disability

Colleges and Universities A-Z Smith College
1

Hello everyone! I just want to hear some thoughts on what I’m worrying about.

I have a disability that was left untreated or diagnosed until the end of my junior year, but despite this I still managed slightly above average grades (A’s and B’s, one C). I’m a senior now, and currently being properly treated, so my situation is much more manageable. I am really worried though, because my cumulative GPA isn’t at Smith’s average of 3.9. Right now my uw GPA is 3.7, but my cumulative is probably a 3.2 or 3.3. I was also unable to take any APs freshman and sophomore year due to, well, being incapacitated, but I took 3 junior year (4,4, and 5) and am taking 3 in May. I took my ACT before I found the right medication (it sounds trivial but it makes a world of difference) so I only scored a 29. I just feel so average in comparison to who goes to Smith. I feel like my only advantages are that I wrote really amazing essays, and had a good interview. My “numbers” don’t show what I am really capable of, just how well I was able to hold it together while battling my disability, and I’m afraid they won’t see that.

It doesn’t help that my boyfriend just got accepted into MIT, so already I feel like garbage about this. What do you guys think? Is my anxiety valid, or am I just being a quack?

2

According to the CDS, Smith’s average gpa is 3.84
https://www.smith.edu/sites/default/files/media/Office%20Images/Institutional-Research/CDS_2017-2018.pdf

3

Smith accepts students below and above the average (obviously). Could one of your recommendations (counselor rec) address your ongoing issues and disability? Did you address your issues during an interview or on the common app? Smith will take all of this into consideration when they review your application.

4

I know the deadline for applying has already passed, but I still think you’d have a good shot at Smith! As long as you mentioned your disability for extenuating circumstances, they should take that into account. I was accepted ED, and have gotten all A’s and B’s throughout high school-- and one C in freshman year. Good luck!