I am new to these forums, but am really needing some help to maybe relieve some of the stress I’ve been having lately! I’m a rising senior in an Early College program in NC, meaning I will graduate HS with a full AS and AA. As of right now I have about a ~3.3 UW GPA and ~4.3 W GPA, and a 27 ACT score, which I hope to raise to a 30+. I am very active in my church’s band, serving about 6 hours a week since I was a freshman, and have a PT job as well. What do you guys say my chances are of being accepted to NC State, and what could I possibly do to increase my chances? Thanks so much guys!
In my experience, you should drop all mention of your church band. NC state doesn’t like religion or music. It’s a secular school for serious academics.
Other than that, your chances seem mediocre. Your GPA is honestly not that high and your test scores could use much improvement.
I don’t like to ‘chance’ people, but I want to commend you on your academic accomplishments while being active in band and holding down a job. I think your activities will be a positive on your application. My d listed several church related ECs on her application and it didn’t hurt her a bit. She is in the Honors Program at NCSU. Raising your ACT score a point or two would probably allow you to breathe easier, but you’re not out of range. Look at the 2015 First Year Facts: http://admissions.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/first_year_facts_2015_FINAL.pdf Get someone to review your admissions essays for you and try to get some good recommendations from teachers. Let us know how it turns out.
I don’t like to chance either, and generally stay away.But, I want to reinforce what NeedAVacation says. Look at the link and on the last page there is a table of the Middle 50% stats. If you see yourself in that range, you can feel pretty good about being accepted to State. The one variable that would still exist is your choice of major, but each department will have their own stats posted. You just need to find them.
As for this -
Your involvement shows commitment. That’s what matters. Don’t be afraid to mention it. My own two sons, who are both at State, listed significant church involvement as well, because that’s who they are. In that context, they were able to share a lot about leadership and service.