<p>Hello everyone,
I am currently a HS Junior and the college I'm planning to apply for early decision is Columbia University. I visited the campus a few days ago and I've been captivated by the lovely architecture.
In terms of academics, I would say I am decent. I'm currently taking 3 AP classes this year, with straight A's and 2 Bs (so far).
I have also fenced for more than a year now. I qualified for the Summer Nationals and I got into the top 16 for Div II WE, top 20 for DIv III, and top 50 for Cadet. I earned my D2014 at Nationals as well. I train 4 days a week and I'm planning to attend the October NACs next month in hope of earning my C (or B!) so I can fencing Div I. Am I on a right path for qualifying for the Columbia fencing team? If not, what are some things I should change?</p>
<p>I am sorry to say that you will not be experienced enough to fence at Columbia despite your incredible progress. I know a MS fencer from my state who was recruited by Columbia and he was an A rated fencer by 9th grade, was on the Y12, Y14, cadet and now junior points lists, and fences internationally. </p>
<p>There are other good schools for fencing, including Div III schools. (Div III doesn’t give money for athletics, though.) If you like the NYC area, there are several schools in the area with Div III fencing teams, including NYU. Go to usfencing.org and scroll over to ATHLETES and then COLLEGE PROGRAMS to see a list of all the women’s NCAA fencing programs. Good luck at the October NAC and let us know on CC how your fencing career goes.</p>
<p>For the short time you’ve been competing, your results are impressive, particularly your top 16 in in Div II. I believe you have a future on an NCAA team. Earning your C is a good short term goal, but also aim for making the 32 in Junior, which will pay bigger dividends. Good luck!</p>