<p>Listen to Osaka Dad–golden advice. Some more advice…from my college counselor to me. Don’t take the ACT/SAT too many times. Really prepare for your second taking of each. i bet you’ll see a big rise in score. Also, maybe add a few more privates to your list? Private schools in general really LOVE motivated students like yourself, with compelling stories and great ECs. I have a friend with a story and background stats very similar to your own. He was offered FULL RIDES at some very good privates that ended up being more affordable than some of the state schools. So get those scores up, keep up your school work, and write a memorable essay. The privates are able to look at you more “holistically”…they are interested in the whole package, so that’s why I think you should spend time freed up from not taking the tests too many times and work on polishing that essay and your resume. Also, don’t forget to fill in the “special circumstances” section (can’t remember if it is called that) for the state schools stating about your father’s passing (sorry) and its affect on you, how you have overcome that tragedy and done exceptionally well in school. I suspect you are going to end up with some great competing offers. Good luck!</p>
<p>thanks a lot osaka and artsy for your great feedback. I’ll definitely be preparing for this upcoming ACT like it’s my last, because I truly hope it is haha. Although taking it a 3rd may add a few points with the super score, but we’ll just have to wait and see. As for the private schools you (artsymom) mentioned, do you remember the specific schools that your friend received success from?</p>
<p>SoCal- sorry…can’t remember them anymore but can tell you that he will be attending Cooper Union this fall. I myself will be attending Cal Poly and I’m really happy with my choice. I wanted to say that, in case it sounded like I was having a lovefest with the private schools only. Just “spread the net” (as you are already planning on doing). The application fees can start adding up, it’s true, but in your situation, maybe you qualify for free apps.?</p>
<p>Its easier to get into SLO for you if your out of state actually, since they want the money. And With your grades theres no point even debating it, your in for sure. And your AP’s are solid. You dont even have to worry about the extracurriculars/other crap. Your SAT might possibly hurt you, but i dont know how much. Id say it might lower your chances like…5% which is nothing. Your in dude stop worrying.</p>
<p>Chances: SLO and Santa Clara almost definitely in. UCI and UCSB, i just cant be sure cuz of the UC selection system. Half the people i know got messed over last year by their irritating system. Maybe it would be safe to say you would get in but once again you never know. I suggest you dont even look at UCI, its basically high school all over again a ridiculously competetive asian community, thats overrated as hell because thats what everyone says about it. Honestly there is nothing that is actually GOOD about the school. UCSB has some good things about it, and if you get in you should look further into it.</p>
<p>Btw if you think im biased i am technically. I am asian, and im tired of all this asian competition at these schools.</p>