<p>Okay, I'm not the typical candidate for Cornell, but could anyone give an assessment of my chances from the information provided below? Any suggestions for what could increase my chances of admission, and by how much, would be appreciated.</p>
<p>Academic: </p>
<p>GPA U/W: 3.6/4.3
Class Rank: 9 of 68
Difficulty: Honors, but only because my school does not have the manpower to offer AP. However, by the time I graduate, I'll have completed the requirements for an Associate in Arts from our local community college. I'm going to an "early college" high school in NC.
SAT I: 730 CR, 610 M, 610 W. I plan to retake the SAT in October. My math score, I feel, was the product of nervousness. My essay score was 8, which I'd like to improve upon in my second attempt. Any pointers for how I should study?
SAT II: I'll take them in November. If I'm interested in Cornell's A&S College, gearing toward a degree in English, which test should I take in addition to the one in literature?
ACT: Should I even take the ACT?
AP Exams: I'm challenging the AP Exam in Literature this week. If I don't get a 5, should I send the score?</p>
<p>ECs:</p>
<p>My school has no athletic program. Our grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is deemed best spent on providing free tuition, books, etc. for the students who took the initiative to commit to this program.</p>
<p>This past year, we've been able to start some clubs. I'm the president of our Interact Club, but with the student body being so small, we're limited. Our major accomplishments have been operating a successful blood drive, and participating in a "Child Abuse Prevention Activity Day." </p>
<p>This summer, I'll likely become involved with our local playhouse. </p>
<p>For part of last year and a few months of this year, I worked part-time at KFC to lessen the financial burden I've placed on my dad's shoulders. I had to give this up when my grades were threatening to slip, but I plan to get another job this summer.</p>
<p>In November, I'll hopefully be participating in NanoWriMo. That is, I will do so if my job, school, etc. permits.</p>
<p>Potential Recs:</p>
<p>My English teacher, who I've had for 3 of my 4 high school English classes, has promised to write me a great recommendation.</p>
<p>My Spanish teacher loves me, so she'll probably agree to write one, too.</p>
<p>I've had the same professor for two college-level philosophy courses, and he might be willing.</p>
<p>My economics professor, who has a Ph.D from NC State, has had me in two of her classes. If I were to ask nicely, she might agree to recommend me. </p>
<p>Okay, so any criticisms, suggestions, etc. are welcome. If you can think of another school for which I'd be more suitable, then please let me know. Schools with great English programs would be preferable.</p>