<p>I am in my second semester at CC in North Carolina. I graduated HS with a 3.1 unweighted. I have a 4.0 GPA in college and am currently taking Calculus 2 and English 112, which are both the hardest courses at my CC for Math and English, respectively. I have a 31 ACT and am a member of Phi Theta Kappa. If I am unsuccessful in my bid for transfer this year, I will be transferring to the local University then reapplying again for Fall 2011. Can anyone tell me a). How competitive I currently am as an applicant and b). If I don't get in, how could I improve myself to be of quality in the eyes of the Stanford's of the world? Thank You, any information would be appreciated.</p>
<p>To be honest, Stanford has around a 2.7% admission rate for transfers. It’s pretty much a crap-shoot no matter what. I’ve read that there were ~1,000 applicants for 20-30 spots this year. I didn’t apply because I figured I wouldn’t even have a slight chance with a 3.75.</p>
<p>The thing about Stanford is it isn’t all about the numbers. There are plenty of 4.0 applicants with stellar SAT/ACT’s and good EC’s that are rejected. The key is standing out. You need to have your essays completely be you. They should be seen as the physicalization of your thought process and personality. If you can portray yourself accurately and positively through your writing, Stanford will pick up on that immediately and be more inclined to admit you.</p>
<p>It also helps if you’ve created organizations, lead groups of some sort, have a unique or special talent, a genuine story to tell, or have made a profound impact on the world. I also recommend trying to publish something original.</p>
<p>Last semester I worked on a sociological research project where I took the blood pressure of people b4 a scary movie, and then again during a frightening scene. Long story short, visual environmental stimuli can affect physiological processes. I’m working with a professor towards getting it published.</p>
<p>Also, have your letters of rec be amazing and from professors that know you well…Having 1 from a Stanford alum can be even more useful.</p>
<p>Anyway, I wish you the best, and good luck in your academic endeavors!</p>
<p>…But if I’m a Bear and you’re a Tree in the fall, all luck is off during The Big Game! lol ttyl.</p>