<p>Chicago is my first choice school. I love learning and seeking knowledge really is my favorite past time. HOWEVER, I slacked off early in highschool and it hurt me badly. I will end up with a 3.8 when I apply early and a 3.95 when I get rejected and have to reapply in the spring. My SAT scores are about 1380/1600 (720 math, 660 verbal), 750 History, 750 Bio M, and 620 (UH!) Math IIc. I definitely showed an upward trend, however are my stats just too low to be considered? Even if I write some killer essays? I love Chicago, every single thing about it, and I can just tell that it is where I belong, but I think I did myself in. I am very involved in leadership and extra cirriculars, but how much can this boost my miserable stats. Someone please help.</p>
<p>I wouldn't worry. A lot of colleges <em>say</em> they don't judge you by test scores, but Chicago really means it. Some of the most brilliant people here didn't do all that well in high school because it didn't challenge them, they pondered life too much, etc. What Chicago really wants to see is passion for learning, living, creating, and feeling. If you can convey one thing in your application, it should be that you are serious about Chicago. If you can show them that you love to learn and love Chicago, you have a really great chance.</p>
<p>Oh, one more thing - your stats are in the median range for Chicago. But I'm serious when I say that they don't matter. If you got a 1600 but had a boring app, they probably wouldn't accept you because you're just not their type.</p>
<p>Thanks so much, I was hoping I would hear that. I am really focusing on my appetite for random tidbits and my love for reading National Geographic instead of doing stupid math homework in my essays. Hopefully I win the lottery and will be able to see some of you at Chicago in a year.</p>