So my application to Baylor University was just sent off. I’m very, very interested in this school (it’s my number 1), but I do have A LOT of draw backs. My freshman year screwed me over, and up to my senior year, my grades have been back and forth. I have taken many Advanced Placement classes, and I have spoken with my council. She thinks that the transcript looks like I pushed myself. I would also like to note that my High school is EXTREMELY competitive (by this I mean it has been recognized by the state for being a exemplary school), and is well know in Northern Texas. I made sure and fill out all parts of the application and finished/sent the application before the November 1st deadline (Early Action). My grades/SAT scores are what has killed me. My G.P.A ended up being a 2.91/4.0, and I think my SAT was around a 1410-1450/2400 range. I have recently taken an ACT but will not get those scores back, due to the November 1st deadline. I have talked to many of my teachers in order to seek some advice, along with my parents, who have all been very uncooperative (they don’t know). What makes up for my grades/sat score, is my service. I’m a month away from being an Eagle scout, and have well over 150+ community service hours. There are many more EC, that have branched from Boy Scouts, but I have also gone to and Ivy league debate tournament. Unfortunately, Baylor doesn’t ask for essay so I was unable to fill my experiences to them, but the short answers are cram packed with it. Recommendation, short answers, and even a resume.
I’d like to also add, is that I am applying for their “Pre-Engineering” undergrad program. I have included all of my activities, and I really do have my plan figured out. Many people have encouraged me to attend community college for a semester to two, but I am really interested in going to a Major University.
In advance, Thank you for your time, I sincerely appreciate it. - BaylorGreen
Do you know anyone that attended Baylor that would write an excellent recommendation? I would also do an official visit where you make an appointment and do the main tour. My oldest son was accepted with a 1550 SAT. I think his grades were higher UW but they wanted him to come in during the Summer. He chose to go to another school but I would not give up hope just yet. I would suggest that you apply to Texas Tech, Oklahoma State, OU, LSU or other safe schools in the event you do not get in. Also, it might be helpful if you made an appointment with an advisor there to talk on-on-one about what your major should be.
@woodlandsmom Unfortunately, I do not have anyone from the school that can write me a recommendation, I have already sent in the application. By this weekend, I will have started applying to other schools, such as the University of Houston, and Oklahoma University. I still feel like my grades will hinder me in applying to those schools as well. I appreciate you’re advice a lot! Thank you very much.
Good luck to you! My daughter emailed her common app personal essay to her Baylor admission counselor in addition to answering the GoBaylor questions. If Baylor is really your first choice, you might consider reaching out to your Baylor admission counselor asking them if you can provide more details about your service work/ECs.
People choose colleges for all kinds of different reasons and their goals for attending differ too. Your grades and scores are low for the schools you’d like to attend. Have you considered going to a smaller school where there may be faculty members who could help you bolster your academic skills?
You mention ECs and volunteering. The key activity in college is academic. Naturally students are involved in ECs but that is the extra, on the side activity. Students first must qualify academically. Going to a smaller school may help you develop stronger academic skills.
@lostaccount I appreciate your advice, but I find it that colleges will understand that I have taken many Advance Placement/ College Level courses. I do acknowledge that my SAT scores are low, but from my understanding, the standardized test isn’t based on knowledge or academic skill, but more on the specific tricks/skills needed for the test. I may be wrong, and I hope that I do not come across as unreasonable. You mentioned smaller schools, and I am open to them, there are many schools that I will be applying to, not just BU/OU. I have many schools in mind. Thank you for your responses, they are all very helpful. Keep em’ coming! -BaylorGreen
I hope you have heard from Baylor on a decision and agree that talking to your admissions counselor at Baylor would be helpful. My son has been connected to his since Day 1 and he is hoping financially to make it work for Baylor, but has a few other schools he was also accepted to just in case it does not pan out. Blessings to you!
Being an Eagle Scout is a positive for you if you are thinking of going to Baylor. (Note: Baylor actually conducted the officially “study” that statistically proved most Eagle Scouts become good leaders). Make sure to keep your Baylor file updated and try to stay in contact with the admissions counselor - they are assigned by regions. You also need to demonstrate interest in the college by doing a formal scheduled visit.
What was the final decision?