<p>I'm currently a junior. So far my grades have been pretty good (straight As) and last year I was in at least the top 5% of my school. </p>
<p>I don't do a lot of extracurricular activities, except maybe orchestra if that counts. I'm a member of maybe a couple of clubs and not a prominent one at that. </p>
<p>I'm only taking three AP classes this year, a fact that worries me since many people in my grade are taking 5 or more. I took an easier road so I wouldn't be overwhelmed this year but now I'm afraid it's a bit too easy, and colleges won't think I've challenged myself enough. </p>
<p>I have not yet taken the SAT but my PSAT score in my sophomore year was 213 and hopefully it went up this year. </p>
<p>Do I still have a shot at more selective colleges based on this?</p>
<p>So far I have taken 5 AP classes total, AP European history, AP Macro, APUSH, AP Chem, and AP Lit (the last three this year). I will be taking the SAT in December and if I need to in the spring. </p>
<p>As for leadership positions, I have very little. I did not try very hard last year to be involved as I am lacking in that aspect and was especially unsettled after moving. I am hoping to become an orchestra representative this year if that helps, and am looking to be more involved in clubs this year. If by any chance I become an officer in a club my senior year will that help at all? I also volunteer at a church every week for a couple of hours, which I know isn’t a lot.
And my family cannot afford full price for colleges.</p>
<p>I’m planning to take the Chemistry SAT II and maybe US history? I’m not sure if I’ll be able to take the Math II test as I will have finished only pre-calc.</p>
<p>Take the most challenging courses during your senior year.
Work hard for SAT or ACT. (2200+ or 33+ will make you competetive applicant)
Focus on 3-4 ECs.
Secure couple of teachers for LORs.
Work hard for SAT subject tests.</p>
<p>SAT math II has very “nice” curve. Colleges might want to see SAT math II since you are planning to study chemistry.</p>