Chances at the Ivies from a small high school?

Chance Me / Match Me!
1

<p>I currently attend quite a small 2A high school (roughly ~70 kids in my grade). I just wanted to know how colleges consider that in their application process. I am taking the most rigorous courses possible, however, for instances we only have 2 AP class (Computer Science and Chem.) I'm taking both, but there isn't much. I'm ranked 2nd with a 4.00 GPA. We don't have weighted courses.</p>

<p>Also how important are UIL academic awards for 2A schools? I was a regional qualifier for Mathematics. 2008 computer science state champion (individual and team) as well as 2009 team state champions and 2nd individual. Also I was a state octafinalist in CX-debate. I was also District and Regional champion in all the listed events where applicable. I was a part of our 2006 and 2008 cross country state champion team and bronze winner in 2007. </p>

<p>At the end of each year our school gives out subject awards (the teacher's choose their best students in each class), I've won the Algebra II, Geometry, and Pre-cal award (all the maths I've taken) as well as the CX Debate award. Do these carry any merit on applications?</p>

<p>ECs include positions in Student Council, but this year I ran for president (unsuccessfully) so does that add or detract from anything? I've volunteered roughly 60 hrs at the local blood bank and health clinic. Right Choices for Youth, Spanish Club, Math & Science Club, NHS member. And this summer I am volunteering at the local recycling center.</p>

<p>Does perfect attendance from 6th grade mean anything significant?</p>

<p>My SATs are about 2000, but I can hopefully get it up to at least 2100 the next time I can take them.</p>

<p>I'm looking to places like Stanford and Harvard as my dream schools. I don't know if I can make it though. Any other schools, that I have a decent shot at? Looking to go into Law, political science or social sciences possibly.</p>

<p>Does race even matter? My father is Mexican and my mother Chinese. I generally label myself as Hispanic. Both of my parents were immigrants to the US and divorced when I was a young kid.</p>

<p>My brother was accepted into MIT (first choice) where he attends, but he wasn't accepted into Stanford. His academic career was similar to mine, but my GPA is higher and he didn't have any state championships. Just throwing that out there :).</p>

<p>I'm not really sure where I fall. I know there are many kids who may look more "qualified," but do the schools take these circumstances into consideration? Do I have any chance?</p>

2

<p>You seem to have a good chance but since you don’t have a lot of AP’s and it is a small HS and you don’t seem to have any HOOKS, then your test scores will be weighed heavily. I would recommend taking the ACT as well if you cannot get your score above a 2000-2100. Also SAT subjects would help since you don’t have many AP’s. Remember a hook is important though.</p>

3

<p>I think you have a a great shot. Unfortunately, the schools you are applying to have very low acceptance rates and nobody is guaranteed. Go for it.</p>

4

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<p>Yes, but not much.</p>

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<p>No.</p>

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<p>No.</p>

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<p>Yes.</p>

<p>Being Hispanic will help you a lot. Your XC/CS stuff seems solid. Yes, they will take your circumstances into consideration. Get your SAT above 2100 and you’ve got a good shot.</p>