I am currently an HS junior with a 3.57 unweighted GPA, 28 ACT composite score and SAT scores on the way. I’m trying to beef up my math skills (it’s the only reason I don’t have a 30+) so I aim to have those scores up by springtime. I plan on pursuing a degree in international affairs. Here are the colleges I’m looking at:
-George Washington University
-American University
-George Mason University
-Boston University
-James Madison University
-Northeastern University (Boston)
As you can see, I’m sticking to the East Coast. However, I am willing to look at other colleges where I may have a better chance of getting in.
You have a long time before you really have to worry about where you want to go.
-If you’re going for BU and NEU, try to get that SAT score up to 2050-2100. If your SAT score doesn’t go where you want to it to be, take the ACT (I got a 32).
-In addition, Boston University may require you to take SAT Subject Tests for certain majors. I don’t think that international affairs requires a subject test. For me, I wanted to apply for the Physical Therapy program, but I didn’t take SAT Chemistry so I couldn’t apply at all. Take the SAT Math II Subject Test, it brought my ACT Math Score from a 23 to a 34
-Try to get your GPA up to a 3.7-3.8 range. The schools you are looking at are competitive and selective.
-For your degree, you should have good EC’s that show how serious you are at applying to these programs (like Junior Statesmen of America or Model UN)
Hope this helps and good luck with Junior Year and applying next year!
Thanks for the advice! I still have a couple comments:
Wouldn’t my weak math skills hinder my score on the Math II Subject Test? (or did you mean you took it as another part of studying and all?)
I’m working on starting up a Model UN at my school, and I know people who are interested as well as a potential sponsor. Junior Statesmen would be a little harder. My school doesn’t have a lot of students as deeply passionate about politics as a career as I and some of my friends are, so size may be a hindrance. Won’t hurt to try.
I took the SAT Math II Subject Test because I realized that some of the colleges I was looking at required at least one subject test. While I was studying for the Math II test, I was drastically able to bring my ACT Math score up. If you can get your SAT Math II score in the 600s on a practice test, you’re set for the ACT Math. You don’t necessarily have to register for the test, but doing the practice tests helps alot.
That’s great! These colleges will like to see that you started up a club. Hopefully, you can prove to these schools that you’re serious in pursuing a political career by being in MUN. Good luck with that!
-Also, have some safety schools that have your major in case if things don’t go out correctly. I’d wait and see where Junior Year brings you first before you start applying anywhere. You have a little under a year to wait so relax a little.