<p>I know this question is asked frequently. I also know that none of you can tell me if I am actually going to get into the university. However, it's always nice to know that you're headed on the right track. The following would be my credentias as of now:
-I am homeschooled
-I am technically a freshman (I do sophmore/junior work)
-I am in all AP classes
-3.95 GPA
-24 on act (took at the end of 8th grade)
-varsity football player (defensive/offensive line)also going to join the track and field team and wrestling next year
-member of the homeschool choir
-I plan on joining the homeschool speech and debate team next year (our homeschool team is one of the best in the state)
-member of the church choir
-active member at church
-leadership position in my youth group
-I participate in a church ministry that feeds and teaches(about Jesus) underprivileged kids
-volunteer at a kids camp over the summer for the past two years (I plan to continue)
-volunteer at a homeschool co-op for kids
-Operation Christmas Child key contributer
-I could get many recomendations if needed</p>
<p>I know that it is a little early to be asking about this. And I know that my act would not be good enough as of now (I plan on getting it higher). But if I were to keep this up. Would I be on a good track to be accepted into Princeton (or any ivy really)? Can you think of anything else I could do these next three years to boost my chances? It's been a dream of mine to go to an Ivy League school (especially Princeton). Thank you for your help!</p>
<p>I think with an improvement on your test score you’re on a good track. FWIW Princeton also has some great church groups on campus (AIA/PEF, bible studies etc). If you ever get a chance, go visit!</p>
<p>Thank you very much!</p>
<p>Dear BigJoe,</p>
<p>Good Luck!</p>
<p>As a home schooled student your standard tests and outside recommendations will be very important. A strong recommendation from a teacher will mean more than a parent writing that you are great. Many home school students take courses at a local community college or a four year university. If you can do so it will help your application.</p>
<p>Many recommendations are not required. Two strong recommendations are necessary. I know another home schooled student that had a recommendation from a university professor that taught a upper level class course taken by the student. He audited the course because he was so young but had the highest grade in the course.</p>
<p>Consider entering science fairs, debate competitions, or writing competitions. </p>
<p>Sports and church activities are good ECs. You want to gain a position of leadership if possible. In my opinion it would be better to excel in one or two sports and be a captain in one sport than be average in three sports. In your church youth group what are you going to do as a leader? DO NOT do activities because you think they will look good on a college application. Follow your interests and passion. Do projects that will help others or projects that you really enjoy.</p>
<p>Here is information for home schooled students: [Tips</a> for Home Schooled Students<em>-</em>Princeton University | Tips for Home Schooled Students](<a href=“http://www.princeton.edu/admission/applyingforadmission/tips_for_home_schooled/]Tips”>http://www.princeton.edu/admission/applyingforadmission/tips_for_home_schooled/)</p>
<p>Thank you ptonalumnus! As a leader in my youth group, I lead Bible stuides and help plan activities for my youth group. And as for the recommendations, my homeschool association has a co-op where homeschoolers basically go to school for one day out of the week. Do you think thay recommendations from the teachers at co-op wi be good enough or do you think, as a homeschooler, it will be best to get them from college professors?</p>
<p>This will be my last comment on this thread because as a freshman you should be taking courses you enjoy and not spending too much time on CC or concerned about which university you will attend. Approximately half the students at Princeton change their major from their freshman year stated major. Your interests and the best fit for college may change before you apply to any university.</p>
<p>Recommendations should be from a person that knows you and preferably taught a subject that shows your capabilities. There is an advantage for a recommendation from a teacher that knows your ability as demonstrated over several years. A college professor that taught a course in advanced calculus would be better than a teacher that taught a course in preparation for calculus.</p>
<p>In your youth group can you initiate new activities. I expect other students have lead similar Bible studies for your group. New activities might include leading a group to tutor underprivileged kids, expanding your ministry at Christmas, or forming a children’s choir to perform at nursing homes. Ask your minister to suggest unmet needs in your community. Find an activity that will help your church and community; do not attempt to pad your resume.</p>
<p>Okay, thank you very much.</p>