College Recommendations

<p>Hello, today I'd like to ask for CC's advice: what colleges should I apply to? I'm having trouble making my lists and, with Junior Year at a close, need some help in this regard. Necessary items are:</p>

<ol>
<li><p>Strong physical science/engineering program (I think I want to major in Aerospace or Mech. E)</p></li>
<li><p>Good financial aid: I'm not wealthy (~60k), so fin. aid is a big must.</p></li>
<li><p>Location. I live in PA, and would prefer to stay in NE/Mid Atlantic</p></li>
</ol>

<p>My Stats:</p>

<p>SAT: Didn't take.
ACT: 35 C (36 M, 35 S, 35 W, 34 R, 10 Essay)
SATII: Took Math II, Physics, US History on May 3, scores come next week. Expecting ~700-730 each.
GPA: 99.89% W, ~98%UW (School doesn't use 4 or 5 scale.)
Rank: 1/451</p>

<p>ECs:</p>

<p>Speech and Debate <a href="Varsity%20Captain,%202-time%20State%20Finals">8th-Present</a>
Odyssey of the Mind <a href="Team%20Captain,%205-time%20State%20Finals,%202-time%20World%20Finals">5th-Present</a>
Scholastic Scrimmage AKA Quiz Bowl <a href="Varsity%20Captain">11th</a>
NHS [9th-Present]
Student Council [11th] Junior Class Representative</p>

<p>Work/Volunteering:</p>

<p>6 years as a Cub Scout Camp Counselor during summer [~500 hours volunteer]
Numerous fundraisers/events (Carnival for a Cure, etc.) [~100 hours volunteer]</p>

<p>If you need anything more, message/reply. For which schools do my stats match? Thanks CC!!!</p>

<p>Remember: the best financial aid will be awarded by the hardest to get into. Olin, MIT…</p>

<p>Your budget makes the search for non-reaches harder. Penn State has poor in-state financial aid?</p>

<p>Hmmm. I second Catria’s assertion. Similarly, private universities tend to hand out the most money. I think if you apply for scholarships (both from colleges and foundations) you’ll be able to make your budget. What about York College? I believe it’s $25k per year.</p>