<p>If you update your SAT score, update it at #1. Clearer for everyone to see :)</p>
<p>With that new score, I’m still just a bit concerned about your CR as it has not reached the baseline level of the 25th percentile. HOWEVER Don’t take SAT again. That’s a waste of money.</p>
<p>You haven’t expanded much on your ECs yet though so I don’t know the profundity of what you did. Even if you did a lot of different things and to a deep level, thought is at any time more important than achievements. I believe a good reader can read your profundity of thought simply through 650 words.</p>
<p>Now since I’m not sure about your ECs, I can only give a general comment:</p>
<p>For example, what is your level in computer programming?
If you self-taught yourself C++, that’s great.
Does it mean you understand when to use if() and when to use while()?
Or does it mean you are capable of programming a Minesweeper?
Or does it mean you programmed your own RPG from scratch, gathering game sprites, sounds (maybe you even composed them yourself), written a convincing and touching storyline, with believable characters and invented a new battle mechanic (meaning you have no source to refer to when programming)?
Or does it mean you read a C++ book in your free time?</p>
<p>My question is purely hypothetical. You may have not done a lot on C++ at all. Don’t write about that in your essays then. You may have done a lot on other activities that are outstanding. Focus on that.</p>
<p>It’s up to you to judge whether the schools are reach or match yourself. But from my questions you should hopefully understand where you stand at. Even if you’ve achieved nothing else in life except that RPG game, I have confidence that you will get into many Ivy Leagues (indie game on Steam? even better!). If you’re at the “Minesweeper” level for most of your activities, you’re probably at the same level with many other applicants.</p>
<p>My point is that I cannot judge your chances at all…awards are semi-filler nowadays as some students have the opportunity to compete while others will never have the chance. My hypothesis is that most “chance” thread are simply re-assurance and esteem-boosts. Thus,</p>
<p>If you don’t think you can get in, you probably couldn’t.
If you think you’re good, you probably could.</p>
<p>I think most people have the capability to judge themselves well enough. Do not rely on others for your esteem and as a form of relieving stress. There will be times in your life when you have no others to rely on. When that happens, you can only rely on your heart.</p>
best of luck!!