<p>Connorb123-</p>
<p>I understand your frustration with the suggestion of having a learning disability, but it is just one view out there. For another view, I am a parent of a high school student, and believe that the SAT/ACT scores don’t tell much about a person’s intellectual ability, or if they have a learning disability. If someone had a learning disability, it would be affecting the testing in their classes, also. I also don’t think it is grade deflation if you go to a Catholic college prep. To me, it just lets you know if you are good at taking standardized tests. Back in the day before anyone studied for these exams at all, my brother scored a 22, and I scored a 31 on the ACT. He is one of the smartest people I know, and does not have a learning disability. He did get into college, and did get a master’s and is very successful in his field, much more than his 31 ACT sibling. I just happen to be much, much better at standardized tests. I think a good comparison would be a person who is good at Jeopardy (me), and a person who may not be good at Jeopardy, but would be good in a situation where critical thinking in a real situation over a long period of time is important, such as many high level business jobs (my brother).</p>
<p>Having said that, I think that the SAT score does matter in college admissions, unfortunately. I think that this sucks for the students who work so hard at difficult classes for their GPA, but just don’t happen to be good at taking standardized tests. I don’t know if you want to hear this, but I definitely would suggest studying for the SAT or ACT this summer so you can increase your score. Try the Rocket Review (2005 seems to be cheaper than 2006) and both Silverturtle’s and Xiggi’s method. And take practice exams to see where you are having a problem. </p>
<p>If Depaul is your first choice, and you think you can get in with your SAT, and you don’t require financial aid, then disregard my SAT testing suggestions. Increasing your SAT may help with Merit Aid, however. </p>
<p>Best of luck to you, you sound like you have a wonderful future ahead of you!</p>