DAAP uc program admission tips?

<p>I really want to get accepted so badly to the graphic communications (now merging with digital design) program at UC. I have some questions! </p>

<p>Should i send in my application and transcript as soon as possible with an ok personal statement and essay. or wait a little bit for my fall grades and presumably better written essay. The deadline isn't until Dec 1. </p>

<p>Also how likely is it that i would get in............
ACT: 30 (superscored which UC does) </p>

<p>GPA UNWEIGHTED: 4.0 ( with a good amount of IB classes but I heard UC doesn't look at rigor much) </p>

<p>ECs: Not anything amazing I've done some volunteer work( tutor, science museum volunteer, counselor at parks and rec, library assistant), am in some clubs JACL (japanese American Citizens Legue) NHS, i did one year of crosscountry, and a 5 time counselor (during the school year)for local middle school students teaching science. </p>

<p>Summer intensives: Pre college at Barnard and Pratt institute </p>

<p>My personal statement is pretty good but i haven't started the other essay yet. How important are these?</p>

<p>Also if anyone could provide general info about the overall atmosphere of the program (ie is it extremely isolated from other programs? is it too hard to be taking 5 full years of college and co op/classes during the summer? what are the people like who are attracted to this program? ect. ) that would help a lot! </p>

<p>THANKS!! i really appreciate it!</p>