<p>I really want to go here. it is my first choice. Here is the situation:</p>
<p>Class of '09
Male
Minnesota</p>
<p>SAT: (V) 730 (M) 610 (W) 620
GPA: 2.5 w. an upward trend, best grades in IB Classes.
Diagnosed with ADD, unmedicated, struggled in sophomore and freshman year</p>
<p>-Double bass, will be able to submit a tape of my playing, in orchestra during and after school
-Composition
-Jazz Band
-Lettered in Debate and speech
-Student council, class president for two years
-Volunteer, and work with youth</p>
<p>I need to submit an analytical essay, I'm thinking I'll send my IB World lit paper on the narrative styles of Gabriel Garcia Marquez and Clarice Lispector. Should I do it, or would something else be more appropriate?</p>
<p>Is Bennington the type of school that looks closer at a student's application, or is my GPA going to be too big of a stumbling block? Will my activities outside of school be enough to show that I'm self-motivated? Please help out! Should I apply early decision? Please help!</p>
<p>Being male will help, as will being from Minnesota, I think. Your SAT scores and activities are good. Early decision is great, and does up your chances, as long as you are positive that Bennington is your first choice.</p>
<p>Yes, admissions will look closely at your application to try and determine whether you are a good fit for the school. What do you think your GPA would be for your Junior and Senior year? In other words, was the "upward trend" pretty significant? Are you unmedicated for your ADD because you feel you have a handle on things without medication and can be successful?</p>
<p>That's really the main thing: Do you feel that you can be successful at Bennington? Can you handle the self directed aspect of the school? Can you advocate for yourself?</p>
<p>If you can answer yes to these questions, then make it clear to admissions that you feel that way and why. They will listen.</p>
<p>Congratulations, artherdent42! I was reading your post with interest because my son has a very similar profile to yours (although a slightly higher gpa: 2.86 and, hopefully, climbing), though not as impressive EC’s. Low grades in math/science but good grades in English/history/arts. He is a Jr. this year, we’re actually visiting Bennington this weekend, and he will apply next year, I’m sure. Did you apply ED or regular admission? Do you know if there was any particular ‘secret’ to getting in? I have a good feeling about Bennington even though we haven’t seen it yet. My son wants to study film.</p>