Chance me- Columbia University

Colleges and Universities A-Z Columbia University
1

Hi!
I recently made a post about Barnard College and my admissions chances there, so I thought I’d try my hand for Columbia. I’d ideally be applying as a QuestBridge finalist, but that really depends on if I even become a finalist. Either way, I’d just like to know what my chances are.

I am a first-generation college student eligible for a pell grant (according to the fasfa financial aid calculator). I have a 3.7 UW and a 4.0 W. My ACT score was a 30- 36 in reading, 35 in writing, 25 in science, 24 in math. My SAT wasn’t as great- a 1230, with a 700 in english and a 530 in math (math is not my strong suit.)
I do community service at both a nature preserve and a nursing home, as well as school events, and I will be interning (unpaid) at a local summer camp. I have over 100 hours of community service.
I am in NHS, and my classes next year will be mostly college level. I take college classes over the summer at local colleges, last year Siena College and this year University at Albany. I also have about 10 awards for my academics from various people at my high school. I am conducting research on genocide this year, starting this summer, which makes sense because I want to enroll in Columbia’s Human Rights program.
My essay is on my struggle with my father’s substance abuse.

And before you ask- I am not a URM.

Thank you everyone for taking the time to read and comment! I appreciate it! Give me your honest opinions- I listen to and appreciate everyone’s advice!

2

Right now your ACT is below the 25th percentile for Columbia which makes admission a real long-shot. Keep in mind that Columbia’s admission rate is well under 10%.

Separately, be sure your essay is clearly focused on you rather than your father. The essay is a chance to tell something about yourself that will make admission officers want to have you on campus.

3

I think you’ll need to raise your ACT score in order to have a chance at Columbia or Barnard. Can you take an ACT prep class and retake the test to see if you can boost your score? One option may be to investigate test-optional schools such as the University of Chicago. Best of luck!

4

I will echo @happy1–that is likely a good topic for an essay, but be very careful that your focus stays on YOU and does not spend too many words describing your father’s struggles. That is a line that will take a few drafts and heavy editing to ensure you do that.

5

50/50

6

Focus on raising that ACT just a few points and I think that will really improve your chances