Chance for Good Schools (Weak ECs)

Chance Me / Match Me!
1

<p>Hi,</p>

<p>I'm a junior planning to apply to the top schools next year. I have good stats, but my ECs are pretty lacking.</p>

<p>Assume that my GPA, SAT, SAT2s are all perfect. I'll probably have around 7 5s in APs.</p>

<p>ECs: captain of two academic teams (one qualified for state), two varsity sports, photography (minor awards), prestigious summer program, intern at medical company, youth symphony (toured china), ~300 volunteer hours</p>

<p>Awards are lackluster, USNCO semifinalist is only one noteworthy.</p>

<p>What do you think my chances are for schools like HYP, and what about lower tier ones like UPenn and Columbia?</p>

2

<p>Even if you have great ECs (which you pretty much do, already, i do not agree that they’re “lackluster”) it won’t be enough for HYP. You need a “hook” like being a double legacy, writing a book, or curing cancer or something. Develop a focused passion that will help you to stand out as an individual. these schools have seen it all. Surprise them with your EC achievments if possible.</p>

3

<p>@h1lbert</p>

<p>thanks for the suggestion. unfortunately, its far too late in my high school career to find a hook :(. ill have to make do with what i have</p>

4

<p>I know what you mean, it’s like we have to start thinking about college when we’re 10. But highly unique essays will help in the same way. Everyone applying to HYP can write a solid essay, so you just have to try to give them something new.
Chance for UVA?
<a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1274397-chance-uva-ea-w-essays-i-will-reciprocate.html#post13735148[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1274397-chance-uva-ea-w-essays-i-will-reciprocate.html#post13735148&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

5

<p>Your ECs are indeed a bit on the low side for HYP, UPenn, and Columbia (the latter two, by the way, are in no sense lower tier). The quantity is not important, but you don’t have a well-developed focus. Your chances at all of these exist and you certainly have a shot at getting into one, but do make sure you apply to safeties.</p>