GPA & Rank or More Classes?

Applying to College
1

<p>Hey guys,
So I have a slight dilemma. Should I prioritize higher GPA and Class Rank or go with more classes to show that I'm academically vigilant and have a passion for learning? This is what my fours year plan looks like. My top three colleges that I'd be hoping to get into would be Stanford, Hopkins, and Cornell. Please help! </p>

<p>Freshman Year
Honors English 9 (5)
Biology (4)
Spanish 2 (4)
Geometry (4)
Journalism (4)
GPA: 4.2</p>

<p>Sophomore Year
Honors English 10 (5)
AP Chemistry (5)
AP Euro (5)
Spanish 3 (4)
Algebra 2 (4)
Computer Programming (4)
Without “A” Period GPA: 4.6
With “A” Period GPA: 4.5</p>

<p>Junior Year
AP Biology (5)
AP English (5)
AP US History (5)
AP Spanish (5)
Math Analysis (4)
Concert Choir (4)
Without “A” Period GPA: 4.8
With “A” Period GPA: 4.66</p>

<p>Senior Year
AP Physics (5)
AP Calculus (5)
AP Spanish Literature (5)
AP Gov/Econ (5)
AP English (5)
Concert Choir/Madrigals (4)
Without “A” Period GPA: 5.0
With “A” Period GPA: 4.83</p>

2

<p>"Should I prioritize higher GPA and Class Rank or go with more classes to show that I’m academically vigilant and have a passion for learning? "</p>

<p>Or “should I milk a high GPA and jockey for class rank in exchange for pushing myself academically?”</p>

<p>Which feature do you think is of more importance to schools that you’ve listed?</p>

<p>The caveat is: if you’re not ready for more challenging classes and expect to bomb out – then do the most rigorous schedule possible while excelling.</p>