<p>Northeastern seems fantastic, and I'd love to attend. Although it's highly selective, and from what I've read here it seems like a reach, I feel like I have a shot of some sort and would like to know your opinions on it. I've looked at the Common Data Set and have used automated admission chance sites, with very conflicting results. This is a last resort but I'm really wanting to narrow down my college search list. I'm currently a junior attending a public high school in Texas. I'm applying to the Computer Science Program. I want to fit in and be able to afford a great prestigious school, but am afraid that my numbers don't show if I'm capable of that.</p>
<p>GPA: Will be a 3.5 UW. and probably a 4.2+ UW.
Rank: probably 20 - 25% or so.
SAT's: just took them, waiting for results, but guessing 720 on Math, 720 on CR, and 650 on writing (messed up on the essay, awful prompt this year).
SAT II's: planning on taking Physics, Math 2, Spanish, and U.S. History in October. I feel I could pull off a 700+ on at least two given proper studying over summer.
EC's: member of a few National Honor Societies, have worked two jobs for a total of over half a year now, and am planning on doing an internship over summer (will explain more in a bit).
Essay: Ironically, my Common App essay will be about how my passion for and having grown up around computers and technology has shaped me as a person and allowed me to develop skills in music production, graphic design, coding, 3D modelling, etc. I've been known to be a fantastic writer (not confident in much about myself but this I am!) and feel this could be a strength in my application.
Special circumstances? (not sure where to fit in, or if they have any sway at all on my admission chances): first generation college student? (sort of, mom attended community college to get associates degree, but nobody in my ENTIRE family tree has done anything else college-wise), VERY strong upward trend in GPA and amount of AP classes, low GPA and lack of EC's was due to stressful family circumstances and clinical depression in my freshman and sophomore years.</p>
<p>Also, some sites claim that NEU aid averages to cover about half of their $60,000 university costs. My family makes over $100k a year, but my EFC is very low by comparison due to credit card debt. Am I the kind of student who might be eligible from some decent financial/merit aid packages?</p>
<p>I know I just kind of put a lot of information out there but it would be much appreciated if anyone were to take the time out of their day to help me out. Also chances for Syracuse, Brandeis, Boston University, or recommendations on more suitable would be highly appreciated.</p>