Bard College Chances

3.6 GPA
121/545 Rank (top 25%)
30 ACT
AP: Lang&comp, lit&comp, econ, govn.
Took alot of “pre-aps” ? So pretty good course load

Choir president
St. Paul Choral Scholar (payed singing job)
A host of choir awards (like region choir and camp scholarships)
A host of music accomplishments (sang with Houston symphony, state choir)
Bernie Sanders political volunteer
Nursing home volunteer
Annual Food drive volunteer

Black
Female
First Gen College Student
Single mom is a 100% disabled veteran
Because she is disabled, my mom technically has no income, but we bring in about 28k/year

Recs: 2 good, 1 amazing(Dr. Hermine Pinson)
Essay: I think it’s pretty damn good!

I did have a very “rough” childhood. My mother was a drug addict and wasnt in my life consistently until 6th grade. I lived in about 5 different homes and was involved in a child abuse case. I touched on this in my essay (not because I wanted sympathy but because I consider it an important part of myself)

Also, the summer before my junior year my house flooded. We lost a lot of our things and my mom, brother, dog, and myself lived in a hotel for 6months. It was a huge struggle to keep my grades up while dealing with these circumstances . I also mentioned this in my essay.

So honestly, what do you think my chances are? I plan on applying early action. Thanks.

Forgot to mention… I want to study political science. I am slightly worried that I spent most of my high school career focusing mostly on music. I didn’t know I wanted to do politics untill the end of junior year (Bernie Sanders campaign sparked my interest). Should I worry about this? Thanks again.

I think you have a very good chance if you show that Bard is a good fit for you. If there is something in particular about Bard which appeals to you, make sure you find a way to let them know what it is. If you’re only applying through the Common Application which does not allow you to tailor anything to your Bard application, perhaps you could reach out to the program directors of the departments of interest to you. Or ask specific questions of the Admissions office. Or ask to be put in touch with other students. I can’t believe you’ve already written your essay! That’s amazing to me.

As for music - Bard is a fantastic college for students interested in music - both academically, and socially.

Okay! I’ve been thinking of applying idp, but I’m afraid that I might not sound as smart as the other kids and not get in!. I know it’s silly. Any advice on idp or EA?

IDP is a fantastic opportunity. You will get a real sense of what it’s like to be a student at Bard. If you’re interested enough in Bard and the kind of education it provides to sign up for IDP I wouldn’t worry that you’ll feel out of place, or over-matched with the other students - who also are all drawn to the unique qualities of the college and its philosophy.