<p>I am applying for Freshmen 2010 and am a British Self Educated Student. I applied to several Colleges and am about to have my Dartmouth alumni interview. It will be my 3rd Ivy League interview( have had Harvard and Yale). My SAT 1 are really awaful and Subjects are not great, but I had no preparation as I am self taught. I have loads of extra curricular attributes and lots of paid work and internships in my related field. My College essay was one that they will either love or hate. Just enquiring really whether to bring my SATS up at the interview and be realistic with them about my chances of getting in? Also how vital are the SAT in admission to Dartmouth and what is the role that the alumni interviewers hold?</p>
<p>I think it might be a good idea to bring up your SATs and let them know why they are, as you say, “awful.” I would just be careful how I approach it. Don’t come off as apologetic, meaning, don’t make it sound like you’re just making excuses. Instead simply highlight your accomplishments as a self- educated student, and briefly mention some difficulties this has presented, ie not being prepared for the SATs, but try not to dwell on it too much. Hope that helps, and good luck! :)</p>
<p>I don’t really know if being self-educated is a great excuse for not being prepared for the SAT. Although I’m in a traditional high school, I didn’t do any of the hardcore SAT prep stuff and I still did well, and I know many people for whom that is also the case.</p>
<p>On the other hand, if you have a good argument for it, the interview would be a good place to bring that up. Like 999999 said, don’t make it sound like you’re making excuses, and don’t dwell on it too much. I’m assuming your status as a self-educated student would come up during the interview, so you could talk about the pros and cons of your situation, and just mention the SAT as a con… or something.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>