How can you say it is a waste? You never know. Apply to as many schools as you can if you don’t get accepted early.
I will certainly apply to many schools, but I see added value in applying to more matches so I can have many options come time to choose. But, for example, if I get into one of my top choices early action (Gatech) I will make my list slightly reach heavy.
I just want to ensure I have many options
@doorrealthe ^^
Sounds good. I applied to 18 schools in total, about 10-12 reaches, 3-4 matches, and 1-2 safeties. I got deferred ED so I had to spend Christmas break writing many essays. Just try to write as many essays as you can over the summer! I know it is hard but it will help
@kjake2000 Your chances are probably best at Cornell and Duke, but as has been reiterated above, all of your options are very competitive and somewhat unpredictable. That said, I think your application will warrant serious consideration wherever you apply. You are clearly very accomplished and have challenged yourself in many areas.
Regarding how to play your ED card, however, I would do some serious soul searching about which school would be the best fit for you. Yes, they are all prestigious, but they are all different. In addition to the particular curricular strengths that each CS program has, the campus, surrounding area, student vibe, weather, etc. are important factors. Do you have a preference where you might want to live after graduation? You will probably build contacts and networks regionally that might be important in launching your career. Obviously, a degree from any of these schools would position you well for the national job market. But it’s worth thinking about all of these aspects.
I would apply ED only if it truly were my first choice and there would be no second guessing later on. Also, do confirm with your parents about the cost if you haven’t done so already.
p.s. if you want to stand out, maybe figure out how to work your proficiency with machine tools and lathes into your essay. It’s the kind of detail that might set you apart from the other CS/STEM/Robotics/Math competition applicants.
Best of luck!
Cornell and Duke are likely my top two choices. Thanks for your feedback, I will ensure I believe my ED school is right for me before applying. I have already talked about cost with my parents and we are on the same page.
Thanks again for the feedback
@dblazer @stevensPR @mamaedefamilia @doorrealthe
Just wanted to give you a quick update since you took the time to chance me. I applied Cornell ED and was rejected, didn’t apply to Brown, and got into JHU recently. Along with JHU, I’ve gotten into/am considering WashU and GaTech. I’m still waiting on Duke. Thanks again
Did you ended up getting in ?
Rejected Cornell ED. Got into JHU recently, haven’t heard back from Duke.
Wow, congratulations on JHU, WashU, and GaTech! Fabulous options!
thanks! @HiToWaMom