Applying to Lawrenceville as a day/s scholar for 9th grade.
I am an Asian American, with parents that immigrated from Laos. I am currently attending an NJ private school, and have all As or A+s throughout middle school. Our school only offers Honors Math, and I am on it.
Just took ISEE, and my score averages 94% (all sections were above 91%).
I am assuming that my teacher recommendations are decent-good.
I am still working through my essays and have not had my interview. I am a bit shy and tend to be nervous so not sure how I will fare with my interview.
My ECs are OK/nothing spectacular or earth-shattering:
School Math Counts team as a 6th grader and 7th, won 5th place in the regional. Science Olympiad as 7th grader and won 2 silvers. Golfed for 2 years (not offered in my school), currently placed in LPGA advanced 13+ age group for girls. Also done golf leagues and summer camps.
I am participated in musical theater since 4th grade, and been involved in major school productions with decent roles. I like to sing, and am a decent chess player (never competed).
I don’t play any instruments.
Will not require any financial aid.
What are my chances???
Well, you seem to have a pretty good chance so far. I’m not an expert on math counts but your regional score will give you a nice boost (same with science Olympiad, and your golf extracurricular). Based on your extracurriculars, you seem fine but for your essays, you should focus on only a few of those activities that you’re great at to show your passion and dedication (i believe including a lot of extracurriculars isn’t necessarily good, but I may be wrong)
ISEE scores are good so don’t worry about that.
For the interview, just be yourself! Okay it’s easier said than done, but I advise you to do your research. Don’t memorize a speech, but review some most common interview questions so you have a general sense of what to expect. I advise you to emphasize your passions and just talk casually (no need to be TOO formal). Don’t be afraid to stumble your words; it’s not an English speaking test or anything. Oh and also, make sure to smile! (Not too big though or it’ll seem unnatural).
And last thing, make sure to ask questions! It shows that you’re really interested in the school.
Good luck!
P.S. This advice is coming from an applicant applying for 9th grade in other schools so don’t rely on my advice. I’ve already taken my interviews though, and they were mostly casual conversations. These were tips I gained from personal experience.
You are talking about the three week summer program? That is what I found for day scholar at Lawerenceville. You sound well qualified.
No, for 9th grade (non-boarding).
Thank you for your detailed response, and GL to you as well!!!
From what I’ve read, your chances for Lawrenceville are so-so. You should apply to some other highly regarded schools if you lack a very good public-school option.
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I don’t think your Laotian background means you are not ORM. Otherwise I think you sound qualified. But… admissions rates are very low. I’d encourage you to apply to more schools.