Getting Into University of Miami

Chance Me / Match Me!
1

<p>Hi,</p>

<p>The U is my dream school, and I would give anything to go there! Apparently, (as many other colleges do nowadays), they admit students based on affirmative action. I have a bit of a dilemma, however. My dad is from Pakistan, and my mom is from Trinidad, which means that on my college application (on Common App, that is), I would check off "Asian (Pakistan)" AS WELL AS "Black (Caribbean)." Now; I have heard that colleges like diversity, which means that they are less reluctant to admit people of minority races. I have a 3.9 unweighted GPA and mediocre SAT scores (1870 the first time I took it, without studying) (though, I am studying diligently so that I at least get 2100). I took the ACTs and got a 27, which is NOT my best work, at all. Again, I am doing some hardcore studying this summer; I at least want a 32 on ACTs. I have numerous extra curricular activities, but: 1) I have never participated in a sport, 2) I really did not get a chance to participate in any extra curriculars as a freshman because my mother had breast cancer and she relied on me quite a bit to care for her, 3) I'm all over the place! I joined an environmental club for a year as a sophomore, but I did not continue because it conflicted with a music program I was selected for (junior year). I joined an LGBT community and Unity Club (my school's club for anti-bullying/community service), but they conflicted with each other, so I had to give up Unity Club. I'm a member of Mu Alpha Theta, Escriptus, National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, Tri-M: Modern Music Masters (Music Honor Society), and National Society of High School Scholars. I volunteer at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, and by the time I apply for college, I'd have clocked in about 200 hours. </p>

<p>Anyway, I guess my real question is, do I have a chance of getting into UM although I did not play sports? Also, since race (unfortunately) plays a role in my acceptance, should I check both of the aforementioned boxes, or is checking "Black" alone more favorable? I have a few other biracial friends who always check "Black" rather than "White" or their other race.</p>

<p>Thank you in advance!</p>

2

<p>You have a great chance as of now. If you improve your ACT or SAT like you said you would, then you are basically accepted. Be sure to get some leadership positions in your ECs though, and show a little bit of passion. Basically, do what you like to the fullest.</p>

3

<p>You are a very strong student and your chances are great! Apply to the University of Miami with confidence!</p>

4

<p>I agree. You are a strong student. My daughter will start Miami this fall and your scores are in the same ballpark as hers.</p>