Note what @LateNightReadshd says. I know you said that your depression was due to some other things, but believe me when I say that pretty much and of these highly competitive schools like A/E or Deerfield or Choate or SPS or whatever can really give some kids psychological issues. It takes a certain type of kid. I’ve heard stories of even the most intelligent, hard-working, determined kids going into these schools and suffering mentally for one reason or another. Without your parents and a comfortable home in the equation, things are VERY different. You are always surrounded by other kids, and teachers are everywhere. Also, some kids can definitely suffer some serious self-esteem issues when they go from being a “big deal” at their old school to being just average at one of these schools.
Again, I believe you when you say that you’re doing well and that stage of your life was completely temporary, but these schools can do these things to anybody if they aren’t prepared.
@ccxclife
(Take this advice with a grain of salt)
Oh yeah in response to your later question: yes. Definitely mention that somehow. I’m not sure what you’re a fourth of, or how much of a connection you have with your culture, but try mentioning what you know. Write about the culture that ties(if you identify) you with it and any customs or traditions you do that might be interesting.
For me, I’m half Liberian. I mentioned in my essays how growing up with both my mom(an American) and dad(a Liberian) have impacted my world views. I also talked about how both of their perspectives have made me approach life differently. You don’t have to do something similar to what I did or talk in depth about your racial background. However, it probably wouldn’t hurt as prep schools try to make diverse students bodies.
(@ccxclife: to tag someone with a “.” in their name, you need to insert " between the @ and the first letter of their name, and then another " right after the name–no spaces; and you get: @“nico.campbell”)
Definitely repeat your sophomore year at your new school and do your best to shine there. I recommend staying put. In the end, you are likely to be more competitive for elite colleges at the top of the “60% school”'s class than the middle of the Exeter etc. class and you will have stronger relationships with your teachers who write your recommendations, plus you will have the long term support of the community. Why leave behind all the great new friends you are about to make? If you change schools sophomore year and then again junior year (where there are very very few openings), you will have to build all new relationships 2x and you will be adjusting to possibly more rigorous classes as a junior when most students have their heaviest course loads and the work is the most intense. It will be very very hard to hit the ground running vs staying at a school where you are already familiar with everything. Be careful not to define your entire high school years only by how competitive/“elite” the school is or waste these years by focusing only on resume building for college applications. You want to enjoy your time in high school while you are working hard.
There are some serious red flags as I read your story. Personally I think many AOs will want to steer clear of someone with so much baggage. Too many “stories” too many excuses…