<p>Without going into details, I have had a severe struggle with depression since at least age eight or so. I never got help.
Due to this, I have essentially ruined my chances of being accepted a top, highly-ranked college. I really do enjoy learning when I am feeling better and want the best I can achieve. I started off well; in primary I was in the gifted program, had high national rankings on tests, had a college reading level, etc. I was entered into things such as reading and writing competitions between schools. I started off 7th grade with a full pre-honors schedule (the best we can take for the grade at my school,) I had been in the orchestra since 4th, did several sports, etc. After that, I ruined it. I moved down to average-level classes (except honors english consistently and honors bio once.) I quit orchestra as well as any other activities.
I am a sophomore now. I still am not feeling well, and the lack of mental stimulation is causing the situation to be worse, but I have summed up the motivation to do the best I can to make up for those years and force myself to try anyway.
I am taking 5 APs next year (if I pass the screeners, I suppose.) I plan to start volunteering and to join Key Club and the National Honor Society. I am unsure of what else I can do as far as ECs and such....do you have any suggestions? (I can't afford expensive programs.)
If I do as much as I can, how are my chances for college/ what could I probably make it into?
Thank you. :)</p>
<p>exactly the same as your chances would be if you were not depressed. 5 APs is pretty solid. as for ECs, that depends on what your strong points are. for me it was science, so i did research and competitions. if you’re better at reading, idk, maybe debate? anyway you have to post your stats otherwise people don’t know, and they won’t know anyway even if you do post your stats. also, the really good summer programs are free.</p>
<p>you should really get the depression checked out though, if you go into college untreated it just gets worse. i was vaguely suicidal all through high school and got good grades anyway, but once i went to college it got much worse and i had to leave. i don’t know how things will be for you, but for me college was stressful in a whole different way. i’m not saying college will be horrible, just trying to scare you into getting help if you can. good luck</p>