Chances at a top school?

<p>I'm planning to transfer next year as a junior. I'm currently at a large university that isn't really doing anything for me. With good essays and recs, as well as good ECs- do I have a shot at schools such as UVA, Georgetown, Penn, or Cornell? My GPA is currently at a 3.9, but I'm sure I can get it to a 3.95 or higher after next year. My high school record isn't the best- maybe slightly above average. However I improved each year, with my senior GPA at a 4.0. Do I still stand a shot?</p>

<p>I think with a 3.9 from any school, you have a great shot at UVa or any of the other schools you listed. I don't think your high school record matters that much if you have been in college for at least a year - if more than a year, then high school matters even less. Just make sure you have a decent SAT - above 1250 (in state), above 1300 - 1350 (out of state).</p>

<p>Instead of worrying about getting in, I instead would worry about which one you will attend :)</p>

<p>Although I am a Virginia Alum and hence biased, for what it is worth, here is why I think you should go to Virginia.</p>

<ol>
<li><p>Academics and prestige that are just as good as the other schools you listed.</p></li>
<li><p>UVa probably will cost the least for out of state, most likely for in-state - read up on the new financial aid program called AccessUVa on the Virginia thread.</p></li>
<li><p>Charlottesville, Va was recently ranked the best city to live in America by a well-known source. Penn is not in a safe part of Philadelphia. Ithaca, NY is in the middle of no where. I don't know too much about Georgetown.</p></li>
<li><p>Virginia Sports are better than the other schools' sports programs.</p></li>
<li><p>See the Virginia thread for more facts.</p></li>
</ol>

<p>Hope this helps - but in the end, all 4 are great schools and you can't go wrong with any of them. (But I hope you choose to be a cavalier next year!)</p>

<p>Thanks for the response. Unfortunately my SATs were pretty poor. I was planning on re-taking them anyway, but I'm not sure if I would be able to get near a 1300- or a 1950 or something on the new test. I've been in the North Carolina school system for a few years, and I'm told UNC shouldn't be a problem, but my father may end up in Virginia, so I would like to be close to my family.
Considering the SAT is supposed to indicate how well you do in college, you would think my score wouldn't be a problem- oh well. Guess I gotta start studying!
Thanks again.</p>