Hi everyone, I am new to CC and decided to join to get some more advice as to what schools I should apply to in the fall. I’m interested in biology and environmental science, possibly premed but not sure yet. My stats are: 1580 SAT, 4.3 GPA, 800 Math 2, and taking BioE/M in the fall. Extracurriculars include Red Cross volunteering, internship for tutoring company, martial arts, climbing, and a lot of band involvement (section lead for wind ensemble, marching band, jazz band, and symphonic orchestra). Right now, I am considering applying to most of the UCs, Stanford, Johns Hopkins, and I am debating on what other private/out of state schools would best suit me. I would prefer a school with a good music program, as well as sports (climbing, rowing, or martial arts club/team). Thank you guys so much!
Based on your tentative choices, you might prefer an urban or near-urban environment. However, if that’s not the case, a student with your interests could thrive at a well-chosen NESCAC. Consider the Claremonts as well.
Are you interested in a particular subfield of biology? JHU focuses primarily on biochemistry and molecular biology, and their offerings in ecology and organismal biology are extremely slim.
Your stats qualify you for most schools. I recommend deciding what you’re looking for in terms of size, location, cost/financial aid, etc. Having a better sense of your criteria will help us help you.
You may want to take a look at one of the standard guides like the Fiske Guide or the Insider’s Guide to the Colleges if you’re not sure what you want in a college.
“I am debating on what other private/out of state schools would best suit me”
Probably not, if you’re thinking biology and pre-med, UCs are you best bet if you’re a CA resident, which I’m assuming you are. If Stanford gives good FA then you can consider them, but otherwise you don’t need to look outside of CA.