<p>There has been a lot of athlete bashing on this site, but I am going to take my chances and ask if I can get into Columbia.</p>
<p>Top 10 % very huge famous high school
34 ACT
760 M 740 V
Two time individual All American swimmer
Two time All American relay swimmer
Elected Captain Varsity Team</p>
<p>Does anyone know if being a good athlete makes a difference at Columbia? Yes, I have talked with the coach. He has been very receptive. My times are very competative with the team members he has now.</p>
<p>I will apply early admit if that makes a difference.</p>
<p>The key distinction is whether the coach is merely receptive and encouraging or whether the coach will make you a "request" with the admissions department. Coaches usually have very limited numbers of these, but they DO make a difference. Since your stats are certainly in line with the general applicant pool, I'd hazard a guess that if the coach goes to bat for you that you'll have a great chance. Just be sure you know where you stand with the coach - every year, one hears about kids who got rejected despite lots of encouragement by a coach.</p>
<p>take the initiative and stay in close contact with that coach..</p>
<p>Thanks for your information. December seems a long way off</p>
<p>I guess I will have a better idea if he offers me a trip.</p>