Honestly, I’m so curious on how hard it is for an Asian male to be accepted into MIT. Do I need to be ranked number one (valedictorian) or not? If not, do I need to do something extraordinary like becoming a finalist at the INTEL international science fair and first chair at an All-State band? I do not feel I have enough accomplishments to make it to MIT. I’m first chair in my high school band, and I am on my school’s math and science team. I’m also taking about 6 AP courses next year and I’m self studying for 2 more AP exams. I am so determined to be more involved in my school by joining student council next year. Given you my background information, how hard is it for an Asian male like me?
Well… you only need the SAT, 2 SAT II, and some recs for applying :P. You should check the webpage and blogs instead of asking for chances to random people on the internet. Finally, Continue doing what are you doing if you like it, you will be fine.
Meh, I am currently in band and I do not like it all that much. I have no leadership positions for marching band which was a huge disappointment for me. Plus, I do not like the band directors all that much. The directors all treat me like crap and used me to their advantage to advance in UIL band competitions in TX. I have been stressing so much about quitting band over the past few months. I could make All-State, but I am so worried that I might not make it next year in my junior year. I am also first chair in my band as well in the top band, and I would probably infuriate the band if I leave since I am such a great instrumentalist. Also, I would love to do a science fair such as Siemens and INTEL international, however there is no science fair in my school which blows in my opinion. I can’t do Siemens since band events are in the way of the Siemen science fair’s schedule. What should I do? I need absolute help. Should I quit band?
If you don’t like band that much, don’t do it; it’s that simple.
You have one, golden year left. Spend it passionately, thoughtfully, and without regrets. INVEST yourself into what you love. What do you want to study in college? If it’s CS, do THAT! If it’s physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, English, French, sociology, or even basketweaving, do THAT. There is no secret to college admissions. Every year, the majority of the passionate, deserving, and extraordinary students that apply to these ‘elite’ schools are rejected. Do not be one of those students who gets rejected and is then filled with regret. The way to do that is to live every single day in high school thinking about how you can contribute, learn, flourish, grow, thrive, succeed, and help others to do the same. If doing that happens to get you into HYPSM, then congrats.
The odds aren’t in your favor, but you can make it 100% that you a) spend your time and fleeting life in a worthwhile way and b) that you get into at least ONE college, and that you are ready to take advantage of all the opportunities on offer once you get there.
I wish you the best of luck, and may you not fall into the trap that so many others continue to fall into during this horrendous process.
Couldn’t have said it better.