chance a URM with serious doubts? :(

Colleges and Universities A-Z Washington University in St. Louis
1

<p>Hey all, what are my chances for getting into WUSTL? And any advice? Please & thank you :]</p>

<p>Class: Junior (2011)
Nationality: Ugandan & first generation (But American citizen)
Gender: Female
State: New York</p>

<p>ACADEMICS!</p>

<p>GPA: 4.0
Class Rank: 20/132, top %15 percent
AP Classes: Junior Year = AP English, AP US History (No scores yet…)
Senior Year/Next year: AP Biology, AP European History, AP English (No scores yet…)
ACT: 34 Composite. 32E, 36M, 34R,34S.
SAT: WUSTL requires SAT OR ACT so since my ACT’s are relatively strong I figure why bother with the other SAT's? In all likelihood, I could secure a 780 on the literature and US History SAT II’s but I’ve taken SO MANY practice SAT I’s and I’m stuck at 2160. I even got a tutor and I can’t get higher. Also, I can’t afford all these tests (at my school we have to pay for AP testing) sooooo that’s close to $300 for a bunch of tests when I could just pay $45 for the ACT, do well, and pay for my AP’s in May. What’re your opinions on this? Do you think my status as a first generation/URM will negate the absence of an SAT? AND WUSTL says either/or but submit both IF YOU CHOOSE! Sooo can they really hold that against me? J
* I am only taking 5 AP’s and I’m not in the top 10 percent. Will this hurt me? But at least I’m excelling at these AP courses right? Above 95’s in five is better than 80’s in 20? Lol…And will the SAT thing hurt me? Honest opinions!</p>

<p>EXTRA CURRICULARS!</p>

<p>Summer Camp Counselor
Model United Nations - Honorable mention twice
President of Human Rights Club - planned a Dance for Darfur that raised $8000 for the nation, launched a World Hunger Event that involved the community and raised $20,000 for Cambodia
President of Youth Against Racism - Selected to attend New Paltz University’s 11th Annual Racism Conference
Vice President of SADD
Youth Leadership - participated in the most successful Junior Achievement Company ever.
Varsity field hockey captain
National Honor Society
Honor Roll since 2007
Selected for Summer Scholars 09: Exploration of American Diplomacy at Vassar College
* I am confident about my EC’s but wondering if they’re strong enough. Do I have enough leadership positions? Do I stand out? Hmm…</p>

<p>TRANSCRIPT!</p>

<p>Very strong with the exception of a two C’s freshman year but who really cares? I’ve maintained honor roll ever since then with A’s in EVERYTHING! And excelled in more and more honors classes and AP’s each year so my transcript greatly reflections my academic progression.
*I am not worried about this section.</p>

<p>ESSAYS/RECOMMENDATIONS!
I’m confident about my essay strengths and tentative topics.
I have teachers/advisors who really know me that I plan to have write my recommendations.
*I am not worried about this section.</p>

<p>INTENDED MAJOR!
International Relations/Political Science</p>

<p>Thanks guys =)</p>

2

<p>You worry too much!
Only a Junior and already with those stats? I’d say you’re in, girl.</p>

<p>No, they won’t hold it against you that you haven’t taken every test ever, haha. Try the SAT and if you can’t increase your score, that’s alright–your ACT is strong now anyway, especially for a Junior.</p>

<p>Stay involved, keep your grades up, make sure your essay is good, and show interest in WashU–let them know you love them. :)</p>

3

<p>That was some really good advice. I was really worried about my lack of testing hahaa. Thanks a ton! =]]</p>

4

<p>ACT or SAT is fine for colleges that accept either. You don’t need to take both. Does this WashU require SAT II scores?</p>

5

<p>According to their web site:</p>

<p>Washington University does not require SAT Subject Tests (formerly SAT II: College Board Achievement Tests). However, if you do take them and submit your scores, we will only consider them if they strengthen your application.</p>

6

<p>With the 34 ACT I don’t think you need to bother with the SAT.
I am assuming that the 4.0 is a weighted GPA, since you said you got two Cs freshman year. What is your UNweighted GPA (which I assume is really high nevertheless, with solid As since)?
With your record of achievement, ECs and URM status I think you will be considered a very strong candidate, as long as you convince them of your interest.</p>

7

<p>Phew, such a relief guys! I am soo happy you guys don’t think I should take the SAT I’s & II’s. Thanks =]]</p>

8

<p>A 34 ACT is an excellent score. I would think you’d be in no problem.</p>

9

<p>You might be a good candidate for an Ervin Scholarship. </p>

<p>[Ervin</a> Scholars Program](<a href=“http://admissions.wustl.edu/SCHOLARSHIPS/PROGRAMS/Pages/Ervin.aspx]Ervin”>http://admissions.wustl.edu/SCHOLARSHIPS/PROGRAMS/Pages/Ervin.aspx)</p>

10

<p>Wow thanks for your feedback! That’s really helpful. (=</p>