<p>I’ve had Bowdoin recommended to me by several people and on paper it looks like a great fit. But I acknowledge that it’s highly selective, so if I could get some feedback on my viability, I would really appreciate it.</p>
<p>White Male
Public School
5/320 class rank
4.08/4.33 unweighted (having taken the hardest classes)
SAT reasoning (from a single test date) CR-700 Writing-720 Math-780 (Comp 2200)
SAT 2’s Math2- 800 US history-770 (will take Chem+Physics in fall)
AP stats and US history scores not yet received (and I’m taking four more APs next year)
ECs:
9-12 Math League (President)
9-12 Student council (officer)
10-12 MUN (I’ve won numerous awards and gone overseas)
11-12 NHS
11-12 Varsity Tennis
11-12 Scholars’ Bowl
I also work as a pharmacy technician
Awards:
MUN awards, RPI $60,000 scholarship, History awards, national Merit finalist (probably, because I scored in the 99th percentile)
Miscellaneous:
Did a summer course at Brown U. and also did Green Mt. Boy’s State</p>
<p>yes, you have a shot. i think your state of residence will likely have some bearing on your chances. from massachusetts, bowdoin is extremely difficult. from georgia, say, your chances look better.</p>
<p>We are from California, and my son was admitted ED I by Bowdoin for the class of 2012. I just posted on another Bowdoin thread that the objective stats alone aren't enough to give an idea about "fit," which in the long run is really what matters. Of course, there is an assumed academic potential somewhat based on a range of objective stats, but given that a student meets that threshhold (which I know can be very high), IMO Bowdoin is searching for the individual who can not only succeed in a rigorous academic environment (i.e., get good grades), but also be truly engaged in his/her own education (i.e., be authentically interested in and active in his/her studies); and is committed to being a socially responsible world citizen as a student and after graduation. </p>
<p>This is not to say that an applicant can't view a Bowdoin education in practical terms, but IMO the ideal applicant to Bowdoin would want to consider what s/he can contribute to the local and global community. If these lofty goals aren't very appealing, it's important to explore whether an applicant is only interested in attending a highly selective LAC (which is fine, as long as you can be honest with yourself), or wants to ultimately live its values. </p>
<p>Understand that I'm not beatfying Bowdoin students, since I know they can be as ego-centered and eager to party as any young adult --just that the concept of the Common Good is the overarching ideal of the college. So, if you do consider applying, take a look at the website and the discussion of the Common Good.</p>
<p>From the Bowdoin website: It ought always to be remembered, that literary institutions are founded and endowed for the common good, and not for the private advantage of those who resort to them for education. It is not that they may be enabled to pass through life in an easy or reputable manner, but that their mental powers may be cultivated and improved for the benefit of society. "</p>
<p>Yes, I am in fact from Vermont; Burlington, to specify. Sorry for not including that. Out of curiosity, was it just the Green Mt. thing that tipped you guys off?</p>
<p>To answer the OP-- Your stats look good. You clearly meet the academic threshold that jazzmama is talking about. As to fit, that's for you to demonstrate to the admissions committee. Since you're so close, it would be valuable for you to visit in person.</p>
<p>Oh yeah, I plan on visiting all the ME NESCACs this summer. Also, my dad is friends with a professor there, so I'll meet with him and talk about the school. Thanks for your help, everyone.</p>