Chances at Vanderbilt??

Colleges and Universities A-Z Vanderbilt University
1

Hey all,
I was just wondering if you could give me some insight on what my chances of admission are at this school. I know I’m very much on the line, but I’m trying to stay cautiously optimistic.

Background: Caucasian male from West Virginia, applying Early Decision 1. Had a very good alumni interview as well.

GPA Weighted: 4,4
GPA Unweighted: 3.81

  • Lots of APs including World History, Biology, Micro and Macro Economics, US History, and English Writing and Composition with 4s on all except Micro Economics (2) and English (5)
  • This year enrolled in AP Physics C Mechanics, Comp Sci, English Lit, and Calculus AB
  • Almost all honors classes with the exception of classes like theology (Catholic school) and PE
  • The only thing I’m worried about in terms of grades is that I got 6 Bs total last year, though I only got 1 my freshman year and one sophmore year. (3 of my Bs have been B+s)

ACT Composite: 32
English: 36
Reading: 36
Math: 29
Science: 28

SAT: 1400
Math: 700
Reading: 700

Took SAT subject tests in Bio M, Math 2, and Literature, scores weren’t great, not submitting.

EC (What I’m most worried about)

  • 4 years varsity swimming (Current Team Captain)
  • 4 years counselor at a local Church Camp
  • 4 Years of Guitar Lessons
  • 10 years of piano lessons including performances
  • 3 years lifeguarding (Head Life Guard this past summer)
  • 1 Year of Debate Team
  • 4 Years of Junior Classical League (Latin Club), Co-president this year
  • 6 Years Ski Club
  • 3 Years Peer Tutoring
  • National Merit Semi Finalist
  • AP Scholar with distinction
  • National Latin Exam Award (3 Years)

I realize my test scores are a little low and my ECs could be a lot better, but do you think that I have a reasonable shot of admission due to early decision, my home state, and my interview?
Thanks!

2

Your test scores are fine. The only thing that would concern me is possibly subject tests if I were you. My school had two kids get into Vandy ED last year, both with scores of like 30 on the ACT. And they weren’t URM’s either. Or valedictorians. Your GPA might be a problem as well. Good luck! Chance me back? http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1939905-chance-me.html#latest

3

You did a bang up job in high school, so hold your head up. Like those AP scores in general and the fact that you took so many challenging classes. Your great reading score is a bit lopsided by colleges don’t want students who are all alike. I personally don’t think Vandy expects students to be regional and national stars in ECs although obviously cheers to those who can win national debates and science fairs. You are super college ready. Vandy is a reach for you and for people with better scores and grades. that is just the numbers and the odds and is no reflection on you. Nevertheless, I hope they give your application a serious read and wish you open doors. If not Vandy you will have great choices. Those of you putting yourself out there in ED rounds need to hang tough and proud. You applied to a reach college and asked them to give you a serious review in a round where the odds are a bit better than in March and April.

4

Thanks for the insight, I’m doing my best to be optimistic yet realistic.

5

I think you have a good chance. IMHO, it depends on how good your essays/recommendations are. If they intrigue the admissions officers enough, there aren’t any red flags in your app.

6

Thanks