This discussion was created from comments split from: Chance me for Exeter and Andover.
I have a question about my chances in getting into a school like exeter or andover. I’m going into 8th grade this year and have recently been thinking about college and better ways to get in. I am african american/ caucasian/ hispanic and on recent report cards(from 7th grade) have A’s (couple A-) and 2 b’s. I was on student council for 7th grade year and am going to be on it 8th grade year. during 6/7 grade i was in humane society, did at least 60 hours of community service and was on battle of the books. I have been playing soccer since i was 5, have recently token up volleyball, played school field hockey, wrestling and cross country. I didnt really think about boarding school until now and have realized i am not that qualified for it. if i took college class during this year (8th grade year) and started volunteering/doing more school activities could i have a chance to get into exeter or andove 9th grader and up? I can also get recommendations from a lot of my teachers if i need to… I also have been self teaching myself french.
@“De.Al” Hi, I’m in the same situation you’re in! I actually think that you do qualify for boarding school. Taking a college level course in 8th grade is, IMO, unnecessary, when you’re doing it just to get into a school. With that being said, if the course you plan to take is something that really interests you or could be used to demonstrate a passion in a particular area, go ahead! Overall, I think you have a very decent chance on getting in if you keep your grades up and keep doing what you’re doing! On doing more activities and volunteering, your diversity sports seem really good, so an addition there may be unnecessary. A suggestion would be to maybe join more academic groups/activities. Also keep in mind that most boarding school applications need an English and math rec, a personal rec, and an extra curricular rec, so they might not accept recs from people they don’t list. Another little thing, it is definitely not easier to get into top colleges from boarding schools. Sure, many boarding schools boast incomprehensible amounts of people who get into great colleges, but it doesn’t mean that it will be easier. Competition (from what I’ve heard) at these schools can be something that motivates you to accomplish what you think is impossible, or make your school life miserable and unbearable. With all this being said, I wish you good luck!
I recently wrote (kind of long but covers it all) a Chance Me for Exeter/Andover reply that would apply to you as well. If you go to that thread (recent so near the top of the Chance Me threads) you can give it a read. If you have other specific questions (my son is at one of those schools) you can ask me here or on a PM.
@"“De.Al” There are lots of wonderful boarding schools where you could get an amazing education and be part of a community that can help you grow and thrive. Exeter and Andover are just the largest and most well known. They are not necessarily the best schools for everyone. Check out some of the smaller, lesser-known schools, too. They might love a candidate like you who is so well rounded and has tried so many different things. (Check out St. Andrew’s School in Delaware, Berkshire, Loomis Chaffee, Middlesex, Millbrook, Governor’s, Tabor, George School for starters. Look at Cate and Thacher if you think you might enjoy some California sunshine year 'round. There are kids there from the East Coast and all over the world and the educational opportunities are top notch.)
Have you taken a practice SSAT test yet to see how you might score?