Hi everyone,
I am a Canadian international student wanting to apply for an undergraduate program at one of the above institutions, likely in the sciences/biological studies. I am new to this forum and am not sure of what I should provide for a rough estimate of admission chances, but I will jot down anything I think may help :). My only issue is that I come from a Chinese background, with perhaps not-the-greatest public-speaking and interpersonal skills. My essay, and especially interviews, would bring my chances down significantly, but just judging on my other merits, I would appreciate if you all could give me some insight. I understand admissions are extremely competitive, especially with these quite prestige institutions, so I want a rough idea of whether I should attempt to apply.
-Currently a junior at a regular high school
-94%+ average; tried converting to GPA, however every calculator gives something different so I gave up.
-2 APs, Biology - 4, English Language - 4. Will be doing a couple more - expecting them all to be at least a 4+ from my studying.
-SAT Biology 770, again will be doing more, although I know these are optional
-Just did SAT with Essay Dec 02, expecting at least 1450 (hopefully :/), maybe 1400 just to be safe?
-President of a HOSA Chapter at school
-2 Long-term volunteering commitments, one at a public library where I mentor elderly in computer literacy, another at a non-for-profit medical organization.
-A co-op experience at a Research Operations Department of one of the biggest hospital networks in Canada - Trillium Health Partners. Lots of opportunities here - I even got to help out a Research Associate on a nephron disease project.
-A research program where we model different experiments on a program called Cobweb, at U of Toronto.
-Currently leading a veterans’ advocacy project that aims to connect the local youth generation with our Veterans. (started last year, couple events, organized assembly, have website)
-Competitive swim team; Certified as a National Lifeguard
-Downhill Skiing: Racing Level
-Duke of Edinburgh Soon-to-be Gold Award
-Have Grade 8 RCM (Royal Conservatory of Music) piano; pursuing Grade 10.
-Couple of school awards here-and-there, though these probably don’t mean much in the US
-Youth Ambassadors Program with Canada Exchange Alum
-SHAD Valley Program Alum
-Still actively searching for summer programs, these are good experiences regardless of universities.
-Passionate in Biology and aspires to be an ophthalmologist and biomedical researcher
-Hoping to give back to the scientific society using my future knowledge, skills, and expertise.
Again, my main disadvantage will be my interview. I’ve heard stories where interviews that go well (lead to acceptance) usually involves the interviewee becoming friends with the interviewer. Knowing me, I’ll probably offend all my interviewers without even noticing…
Anyways, thanks in advance, I really appreciate it.
Regards,
J