I am a junior and my sister insists that I consider looking at highly selective schools (UC Berkeley, Duke, etc.) and Ivy Leagues (UPenn and Columbia) but I don’t think I am THAT qualified so right now, I am aimless. I don’t know what schools to consider or if I’m qualified enough to go to selective colleges (less than 40%). Here’s my info:
-Want to pursue masters in computer science in college
-female
-GPA of 3.85-3.90
-a part of 4 clubs (for STEM and getting involved in the community, each spent 100+ hours)
-Martial artist (5 years, black belt)
-Attended a STEM camp at UC Berkeley last summer
-Took an online College Board SAT prep test, my predicted score is 2080 (without studying, so once I study, I’m sure my score will increase)
8 AP classes (rest are honors, besides electives)
-2 years of French (because of how horrible my French teacher is. I decided to take a computer programming course instead)
-Self taught programmer (the comp programming class is just more in depth)
-Web designer
-I am going to apply for internships and camps over the summer that are in STEM (computers specifically) and I am hoping I will get at least one!
-National Honors Society member
-Volunteer at shelter (mainly for the joy of it, also 100+ hours)
Since I currently take AP English, I assume my essays will be at least decent. I hope this helps. Either my sister is being unrealistic or I’m being doubtful. If I can’t get into Ivy League, what schools can I get into (that have good comp sci programs)
You have as good a shot as any in selective schools. Without having a concrete SAT/ACT score it is almost impossible to predict where your match-reach schools are. For example, my practice SAT was higher than my real test and my practice ACT was lower than my real test. If you receive a great score, maintain a solid GPA, and take a hard senior year schedule, then your sister is correct and you should consider those schools. However, realize that just because it is “ivy league” does not make it better or more selective. If I’m not mistaken, Duke is ranked above Cornell and Brown
Having only 2 years of French will hurt you. Top colleges will expect 4 or AP. See if you can take it at a local community college. If you take College French 2&3 you’ll be good to go (as this more or less corresponds to French 3 to 4/AP in a year.)
Do you live in California? If not, do your parents have a budget of 60K/year to pay for your college out of pocket? (Because UCs are public schools, they’re designed to serve CA residents. Others who wish to come have to pay full costs.)
What do you like in a college?
If you like CS, what about Scripps and Harvey Mudd?
If your parents can afford it, Santa Clara would be good safety if the NPC indicates it’s within budget as well as UCSC.
Obviously, apply to Cal Poly SLO (+ CPP as an extra safety if you don’t like UCSC).