Chance me for RD?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Carleton College
1

Demographics: White female (lesbian) from Nebraska.
3.98 unweighted GPA, 4.35 weighted.
34 ACT
1470 PSAT
1420 SAT-- I know it’s low, but I’m retaking it in August after extensive studying.
7 on the IB SL Bio test, and I expect to do decently well (5+) on my other IB tests.
Class Rank: 3/518
Extracurriculars
4 year policy debater, 1 time national debate tournament qualifier
Junior counselor at my local nature day camp (4 years)
Secretary of NHS
Member of Link Crew (1 year, organization at Lincoln High to help new freshmen get oriented)
4 year orchestra student (viola)
Member of the Homestead National Monument Youth Advisory Board (1 year, we organize service projects to beautify and publicize the park)
Student member of the Lincoln Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (1 year, decision-making body for the Lincoln Parks and Rec department)
Member of Tri-M (1 year, musical honor society)
Awards
NHS member
4-year honor roll student
Recipient of an academic letter
Recipient of 2 debate letters
Member of Delta Epsilon Phi (German honor society)
Recipient of a Gold Award from the American Association of Teachers of German (2017, for scoring in the 90th percentile or above on the National German Exam)
Recipient of 2 Silver Awards from the American Association of Teachers of German (2018 and 2019, for scoring in the 80th percentile or above on the National German Exam)

Thank you for any and all advice!

2

My DD with similar stats was admitted, but she applied early decision. The 34 ACT should be fine, I would submit that and not retake the SAT. Have you visited? It is a small school and fit is important. Hard to tell from your strong stats and activities whether or not it would be a good school for you. I’m sure you’ll be successful wherever you land.

3

I think you have a reasonable chance with your stats, but Carleton has a lowish acceptance rate, 19 percent for class of 2023, so even with good stats it’s no guarantee. Be sure to let your essay tell them a little more about you than what can be gleaned from your stats and ECs. Also choose your recommendation writers carefully. Best of luck.

4

I second the ED recommendation if you are sure being a Carl is what you want - it really helps. If you do apply RD, be sure to show interest (visit if you can, open the emails, etc.). Carleton doesn’t put a big emphasis on Demonstrated Interest, but they do use it to break ties for the last few admits. Good luck! Your profile is definitely strong, so you are in the admission mix - it is up to you now to stand out from the crowd!