Hello! SUNY Cortland, Binghamton, and UCI are so far the three reach schools I have in mind. I would love to be chanced for them. Here is my info:
-Lived in Thailand for my freshmen and sophmore year of high-school (attended a private international school there)
-Roughly 3.822 weighted GPA
-Currently in the top high school in my state, which is known for its strong program. It’s a dual-credit school, so I am also currently in college.
-National Honors Society Member
-Pho Theta Kappa member (the college’s honors society)
-I have studied Thai, Chinese, and Spanish. Thai specifically I have studied for 3 years, Chinese 2, and Spanish 1.
-I played varsity basketball and volleyball, of which my team for volleyball placed second in its city tournament, and basketball third.
-I was a percussion member in band, and we went and performed for Webster university in Thailand.
-I’m Asian(if that helps at all).
-I have earned a computer literacy certification (IC3 GS4).
-I have over 50 community service hours(probably will finish with over 100 by the end of senior year).
-I was a delegate of the Model United Nations.
-I was a member of student council in grade 9 and 10. Specifically in grade 10, I was elected class representative.
-Currently my SAT scor(just reading+math) is 1,150 out of the 1600 scale. With the writing section it is 1650. That was my first attempt however, and I am retaking the SAT in November and December, score will most likely increase.
I have taken the ACT, however, that test really isn’t stuited for me and I prefer the SAT more.
I do have financial limitations to an extent. And no, I’m not a New York resident. Just curious as to why they might thinn my grades are inflated?
Also my ACT score was quite low, and thus I know I will end up using my SAT score for colleges.
Ah, I see what you mean. Well since it was my first attempt I hope to increase my score, as I have been studying quite a bit in order to prepare for the November test. I will definitely look into those colleges, thank you for the suggestions!
Honestly, I think really the only thing that’s really limiting you is that Test score. Honestly, with that GPA, I’m sure you can do much better. I’m very confident that you can get at least a 2000 on the SAT(2400 scale) for sure. Assuming you put in the work, I really think that’s a possible goal.
Like my first ACT score was a 21. I raised it up to a 31, all with hard work, and smart studying. I’m not saying you’re going to get a 2000 guaranteed, but don’t get your hopes down, because it’s definitely possible to improve, if you put in the work.
Mchichioco: Thank you so much for your response, it was very helpful and motivational. How much in advance did you study for the ACT in order to earn such a huge score increase? Also I’ll chance you back right now!
@collegeseeker79 Took ACT and got a pretty decent score 30+. I’ve only taken it once but I believe the key part of the test is the pacing. If you can manage your time well during the actual test, a score of 30 or above is actualy possible for nearly any “average high school student” That being said, I would try to drill out separate sections with quality review, all while being timed. I feel like the biggest problem with my SAT studying was that I would just rush through the sections, check my answers, then wave off whatever questions I got wrong not caring how to fix them.
TDLR:
-Two weeks prior to test, try to drill a lot of sections with a strong intent to pick out your weaknesses
-Get used to the pacing, especially for science (Most people complain about this)
-One day before the test, try to just relax and chill out
-Don’t expect a high score if your work ethics don’t match up to it
I know my tips are a bit vague and general but its roughly what I did, and I saw a relatively big jump from my first SAT score to my recent ACT score. If you have any other questions lemme know.
SUNY Cortland is a safety for you but SUNY Bing will require a higher SAT score.
What state do you live in and why are you interested in these two specific colleges?
Are you applying anywhere else?
What’s your parents’ budget for college? And what’s your EFC?
If your parents can pay about 25K out of pocket, look into SUNY Albany, Geneseo, New Paltz, plus the CUNYs, especially Baruch if you’re interested in finance.
If you don’t live in California, UCI will cost your parents 55K out of pocket (no financial aid).
If you live in California, why aren’t you applying to more UCs and CSU’s?
Suny Cortland is NOT a reach in your case especially if you are an international/OOS student as suny’s have a hard time attracting students who do not live in NY.