Freaking out about ECs

Pre-College Issues High School Life
1

<p>When it comes to ECs, people always say "Oh don't worry, you just need to show commitment with something, show your passion for something..." and all I think is CRAP I GOT NOTHING.</p>

<p>Academically I'm okay (solid amount of APs, 4.71 weighted GPA), but I feel like I'm really weak in the EC department...</p>

<p>(Junior)
JV Tennis team - 2 years
Literary Magazine - 2 years so far (hopefully some kind of leadership position next year)
Starting a Mu Alpha Theta branch (will be co-prez)
French Honor Society (possible officer next year?)</p>

<p>I mean, seriously, when I look at everyone else's stats on CC, I die a little inside.<br>
I feel like my only two hopes right now, in terms of hooks, are both extreme stretches:</p>

<ol>
<li>Do well on my science research project, become state science fair finalist, then go to Intel ISEF (very very very slim chance)</li>
<li>Get into TASP 2012 (equally tiny chance)</li>
</ol>

<p>Am I totally screwed? (in terms of HYPSM, Wharton, UChicago, etc.)</p>

<p>Not really looking for chances, just wondering if any one else is in the same boat and freaking out like me...</p>

2

<p>UChicago is looking for quirky geniuses. I’ve heard it’s all about the interview and essay with them, and you’ll find evidence of that if you browse CC long enough. It’s not say to say it’s easy (it isn’t) but the focus is more on personality and less on how many hours you spent in this or that. If your grades and scores are good enough, you’ll have a shot. </p>

<p>All colleges want to see that you’re doing <em>something</em> with your free time. Find something you like and excel at it, don’t sign up for things just to put them on an app.</p>

3

<p>So you don’t think it’s too late to start something now, in junior year?</p>