@theChinaman Thanks! I am actually entering national & international competitions and am looking for such recognition. I look to enter environmental competitions like Lexus Eco Challenge (nat’l), I-SWEEEP (int’l), and the EPA PEYA (nat’l).
Do you think my transcript is lacking if I have a 3.9 uw (A+ = 4.0 A= 3.8) (never got below an A) while taking 7 APs (Calc BC, Stat, Physics 1, Physics C, Lang, French, Econ), 3 college level courses (Multivariable Calc, French, English), & 3 years of independent research (considered AP-level in my school)?
Um, like intparent said, You should focus on improving test scores.correct me if I’m wrong. I think MIT and Harvey Mudd look more at extracurriculars and other awards you’ve won, more than simply test scores (hence Caltech having the highest average SAT score, 2310). So if you really want to have a better chance at Caltech, I would really work on getting that fresh 1600 on the sat. Otherwise, I’m not sure of what you could work on.
If you’re talking about ap tests, only the ones from Junior year and before count to colleges when they’re admitting you. (Because those are the only ones you have scores for).
Again I don’t really know what average number of AP test is for everyone because I may be an AP- holic.
But if you’re planning to do environmental engineering, wouldn’t it hurt you if you didn’t take Apes test? The bottom line is doing research at a professional level indicates that you’ve transcended regular course material so I guess you’ll be fine
@theChinaman Yeah I hope not taking APES senior year won’t hurt me. Ironically, I don’t find the info in the class as information as getting my hands dirty and performing lab experimentation to learn first-hand about the environment & how to protect it.
I will be working very hard to get 760-800 on my SAT Math, Math 2, & Physics exams (while getting at least 700 on SAT English). I will also be working very hard to get a 5 on the Calc BC, Physics 1, & Lang AP Exams.
Consequently, do I seem like an academically qualified applicant who would make a direct impact on campus with my research in environmental engineering & my commitment to varsity running? This is how I want to sell myself to MIT.
I also know MIT looks at your personal traits, but my calc teacher, debate teacher, track coach, and research mentor all tell me I treat others with respect, and I always look to help others so they can benefit.
It would be something good to talk about in your interview and essays. It’s always good to hear that an applicant does not just want to attend but also help out.
Thanks @ObitoSigma ! Yeah like I want to make sure my posterity at my high school (& college) know I want to leave whatever I did better than how it started lol. I’ve also heard MIT is filled with smart, kind, & helpful people. That’s a major factor in my decision for MIT since I want to be surrounded by such people when learning at a high level.
Anyone else with advice on my ECs or on how I should sell myself to MIT?
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Yes. Get off of CC for a while.
CC is a valuable resource, but you’re using it to find the perfect behavioral checklist. There is no such checklist, and seeking one will do a big disservice to you.
@Dolemite gave you excellent advice - to relax and not worry about what others think of you.
