<p>I know everyone is tired of these sorts of posts but I finally made an account and I'm really curious on what other people might think. Correct me if this is not true but UCs don't care for HS grades, right?
GPA: 3.8
Major: Biology
IGETC completed and will finish 2 remaining pre-reqs by Spring (is this ok?)
EC: In the Alpha Gamma Sigma Honor Society. Did some paid tutoring but only a few hours because I was only called when there was a sudden need for tutors (I worked at my school that hosted a tutoring center for students of all ages but because I applied too late, I wasn't able to get a permanent position) [Is this tutoring job worth mentioning?]
PS: I can't say they're absolutely awesome. I had some difficult times that shaped me a lot on how I think and my decisions for my major but knowing myself, I don't have great confidence in effectively writing the events. I still have some time so I'll be asking some people but my counselor is really lousy and I feel really uncomfortable about the idea of showing my personal statements to my English teachers.
Also what do you guys think of personal statements that are about colleges? I was thinking about this because my best friend's mother committed suicide because my friend went to a low ranked state college after transferring to a CC. It was absolutely devastating and my family is a really similar type to her family (college-obsessive) and I'm the only child. Although I'm sure that my family won't do something that extreme, especially my mother, it has still been something in the back of my mind for a while now. Although I feel like I can really get personal, I also feel like this can hurt my chances somehow. Like I'm only applying to these schools because of their names and though I'd lie if I don't think that, it's definitely not all of it.
Anyways, for my situation in terms of family and financial stuff, UCB is the best however I'm also really interested in UCLA. That said I'm also applying to UCD, UCI and UCSD.
I wanted to become a psychiatrist (the doctor that gives you psych medicine) btw.
So chances? </p>
<p>Correct, UCs do not care about HS grades. However, you can list awards/activities that you did in HS on the app.</p>
<p>According to <a href=“https://www.admissions.ucla.edu/prospect/adm_tr/Tr_Prof13_mjr.htm”>https://www.admissions.ucla.edu/prospect/adm_tr/Tr_Prof13_mjr.htm</a> , your 3.8 is competitive for the major at UCLA. However, your ECs are average. I would definitely mention the tutoring. PS is important for UCB and UCLA, but not as much for others. Although it might be uncomfortable, feedback is important so ask teachers and counselors.</p>
<p>I am sorry about your friend’s mother, however I would not mention anything about it in your essay. First, it is not your story to tell, and second, guilting a UC into admitting you because of how “college-obsessive” your family is is not a good topic. I think instead it would work against you. If you are really concerned about the well-being of your mother or anyone else, the number for the Suicide Prevention Hotline is 1-800-273-8255. DO NOT hesitate to call.</p>
<p>Talk about a mother who wants to lord it over her kid forever and ever.</p>
<p>Your GPA is great for UCLA/Berkeley. Your ECs may need some augmentation, but they’re just fine for now, and you can always get help writing your personal statement(Don’t write about your friend’s crazy mother. Never heard of someone killing herself because her son didn’t get into a great school. Wow.) from professors, others who’ve transferred to UCLA/Berkeley, UC representatives, and even us here at college confidential.</p>
<p>Overall, though, I think you’re in good shape to transfer to these schools. Don’t hesitate to seek out help on your PS since a good one can make up for average ECs.</p>
<p>Thanks so much!!
Also, how important is the recommended? Should I take them as if they’re just required?</p>
<p>The more recommended the better. It makes you more competitive, and less to do when you transfer over.</p>
<p>Okay! Thanks for your answer :)</p>