Getting in to Stanford?

Applying to College
1

<p>I know that this is probably a pretty big reach school for me, but I'm currently trying to come up with a list of schools that I'm interested in and want to figure out if I'm just wasting my time. Any opinions? Preferably from somebody with experience. I'm a junior right now at one of the most competitive private schools in my area, and I anticipate a 95 three year average (my school does not weigh grades because there is a set curriculum, all of our courses are considered to be on par with college level courses) and class rank between 20 and 25 out of 425.
By the end of my senior year I will have 4 years of Math, 4 years of English, 4 years of Spanish, 4 years of History, 4 years of Science, 4 years of Christian Studies, 4 years Phys. Ed., 2 years of Fine Arts, 1 year of Music History, 1 year of Health.</p>

<p>I haven't taken my SATs yet but I scored a 630 Math, 680 CR, and 680 Writing on the PSAT (96th percentile) and I am aiming for mid to high 1400s on my SAT. I took the Biology M SAT II last year and scored a 690 (lower than I hoped for) and plan on taking two or three more SAT IIs this spring, in addition to a couple of AP tests. I do not take courses designated as "AP" although I did take the exams in Biology and European History last year to demonstrate the rigor of my curriculum and received 4's on both of them. I'll probably take Chemistry and American History this year.</p>

<p>I'm somewhat active in extracurriculars also. I've been involved in my school's Social Studies Club for 3 years now, Catholic League chapter for 3 years (I hope to gain some leadership role next year also), Vice-President of the Economics Club and may be President next year, National Honor Society, Volunteered at freshmen orientation during the summer for about 50 hours, Literary Magazine, and participate in intramural athletics.</p>

<p>Suggestions on how to improve my odds?</p>

2

<p>Do something to stand out among the swarm of applicants just as qualified as you are.</p>

3

<p>Use this summer to pursue one of your interests the next level. Independent research, a competitive summer academic program (see the high school board for ideas about ones that will actually help), community service that shows deep commitment, etc.--something that really showcases who you are and what you want to become. Beyond just filling in lists on the application, these experiences will also give you interesting things to write about in your essays. </p>

<p>It never hurts to improve your SAT, unless you've already maxxed out the benefit you get from prepping (or your score is ridiculously high to begin with). You don't need an expensive course or software; try checking out a book from the library and working the practice tests to see where you can improve.</p>

<p>And try asking on the Stanford board. You may get more informed answers there.</p>

4

<p>Thanks for the help! Well I haven't even taken my first SAT yet... I'm just beginning real prep now and I don't think I'm going to take a course. I'm fairly comfortable on critical reading and I'm going to have a friend of mine who's a math wiz tutor me.</p>

<p>I guess I'll try to look into some summer programs, maybe theres something at a school near me that I can participate in. I'll go check out those other boards.</p>

5

<p>Stanford has historically been big on Subject Tests, so get 'em over 700.</p>