<p>I'm a junior at a magnet school (for the arts) in Tennessee. I know most people are interested in their prestigious language programs but I'd like to end up at Middlebury studying film. But...what are my chances with this kinda stuff?</p>
<p>ninth and tenth grade-communications
eleventh: technical theatre
minor:dance(ballet)</p>
<p>EC ect., ad naseum: A lot of theater work, within the school and around the community. Including youth theater. I have also done lighting design, set design, playwriting and costuming. I've had written work published in school literary magazines. Aside from that during my freshman and sophomore year I was part of Model UN, D:I, piano, Chinese Club, and Russian Club. However, I quit all of that my junior year because of AP and honors courses but mainly to focus on theatre, because I love it.</p>
<p>Other:
First generation college student
adopted
participated in German exchange this year
ballet (two years)
religious affiliation-Quaker
plan on applying early decision
spending this summer at Governor's School for the Arts studying filmmaking</p>
<p>I know I probably don't look like a typical candidate for this kind of school but it's my top choice. Anyone think it's within reach? If not, what can I do to improve chances of making it happen?</p>
<p>I think that exactly because you're not the typical candidate you'll stand out in the applicant pool. They're not just looking for the smartest applicants, the best athletes, and the most-connected--they're creating a class and the atmosphere of the school, and so want to admit a well-rounded group of applicants with diverse interests.
That said, your grades and test results have to be competitive or even the most interesting candidate will have a tough time getting through the entire admissions committee. I don't know exact SAT and ACT numbers, but I'm pretty sure you're on the low side for both of them. You seem like you already know that, so review for them and take one or the other again (and remember, if you get a good ACT score you don't necessarily have to submit your SAT). Also, play up your strengths and your uniqueness in the applicant pool. An essay that sticks in the mind of whatever admissions person who reads your application first will help you throughout the admissions process. They'll remember you as the Quaker (!!! will help you stand out so much) who's into ballet and theater. You're not the typical English major from CT or polyglot from outside of Boston so make them remember that. Stand out. And good luck!</p>
<p>My daughter is a dance major at Middlebury; came from an public arts high school, also thrived at Quaker summer camps (we're not Quakers though). She visited campus and the Dance Dept. (which is a fantastic fit for her); sent a tape of her work too. Middlebury is a great place for the arts. Try to bring up your scores in SAT or ACT and try to let them get to know you in your essays and with work samples, etc. Good luck.</p>