First things first
-I’m applying to either redo sophomore year or to start junior year after finishing my Freshman year at University of Chicago Lab and sophomore year at a public high school in Kentucky
-Typically, kids at Lab start as toddlers and their acceptance is based off of their parents’ affiliation with the University; I was admitted in the seventh grade after spending all of grade school in and out of different low-performing Chicago Public Schools (moved a lot due to family)
-Not a stellar applicant on paper in terms of freshman grades; however this was because of a really difficult and unexpected event (father lost job), and since I moved, I am at a much easier school for sophomore year
-In order to compensate for grades I plan to take the SAT Subject tests to prove that I really did master the material taught in class, but that the whole situation didn’t allow my grades to fully reflect that.
Other than my EC’s and possibly my SSAT scores, I don’t have a “hook”; but I was on one of the top MUN teams in the country (top 5) and an editor on my school’s literary magazine. I am also a hispanic girl which I realize is an URM, but I doubt this will help me much since I’m also applying for FA. I’m fairly positive that my ACT will be in the 30’s an I’ll have a perfect GPA this year due to the school I’m at now, and I know my rec letters will be really good because one of them is from the Chair of a department at UofC Lab.
I have little to no support other than the teacher who is writing my rec from my old school in terms of applying, unlike most kids whose parents have helped them maneuver the applications process; this is entirely my idea, and I feel like being away from home would benefit me tremendously, but I seriously doubt my chances of being admitted.
I know my chances are definitely slim, and also, they are hinging on my test performance more than anything. What do you guys think? Where else should I apply? (Definitely have some other places in mind.) And finally, tips for the interview?
Thanks!
Nothing is for sure in admissions, but you look like a pretty great applicant! Your MUN experience sounds interesting, especially if you plan to continue at Andover. Also, being an URM will still definitely help. Andover is need blind, so FA shouldn’t be too much of a problem. If you’re super worried about your grades, a simple explanation should do.
Since you don’t have a hook, my advice would be to pick one of your interests and really push and expand on it.
My only tips for the interview are to be really confident talking to adults and to talk as much as you can!!
If your plan is to attend boarding school (not just Andover/the like), look at some schools with higher admission rates to whatever point you consider “safe.” These can range from NMH’s 31% to Cushing’s 48%, while Andover admits 13%.
I would say the essay is one of, if not the most important part of the application.
Most interview in the early fall (some even in the summer), so you don’t have to have scores sent in before the interview. The early fall being the best time to look around campus while it isn’t too cold, but classes are in session. If you won’t be visiting, any time between now and even early January should be fine for a Skype interview. Still, schedule it asap.
Keep it simple. Don’t try to sound too smart/professional or advertise your achievements. They already know you’re smart from the interview and you’ve already listed your grades, awards, etc on your profile. Keep everything pretty personal and I would recommend using a little story or anecdote if your essay topic permits
I don’t see why not. I am only a few months out of Andover and I feel like the school is a such a huge and essential part of my identity. Who wouldn’t want to experience that and feel that way.