<p>I am a rising senior who is losing their mind.<br>
I have the unfortunate ability to deem insignificant anything I believe is a falsified projection of character, capability, and intelligence. Basically, I have a hard time finding the significance in GPA's and standardized testing, especially SAT's. I LOVE to learn, though. I want a school where I can foster my academic AND creative inclinations. But I just can't seem to find my glass slipper. My perfect college.
A couple of years ago, I swore I knew where I wanted to go. But now, in crunch time, I am beginning to psyche myself out and am losing even the things as simple as the location that I would like to be in. I'm not sure what I'm really asking for: advice, help, maybe a cyber slap in the face.<br>
So far, here is where I think I may enjoy myself next year, in order of preference:
Reed College
Hampshire College
Oberlin College
Swarthmore</p>
<p>The only problem with my school choices is that they are for kids with the great stats. I know I'm smart enough to hang, it's just MY stats don't show it. I have a 4.2 and a mere 1780 SAT. I'm also moving 3,000 miles away my senior year and get to start at a new school.
I guess I'm just having some trouble. And I was thinking maybe you could help me.</p>
<p>Get yourself a copy of Fiske Guide to Colleges. Look up each of those colleges, and then follow the sidebars which show you similar schools. You might find a perfect fit in a college you’ve haven’t heard about yet.</p>
<p>Fiske is a fun read, and it gives you lots of non-statistical info about colleges – how’s the food, what the campus is like, social scene, general atmosphere, etc.</p>
<p>Check these out and let us know what you think:
Earlham
Hendrix
St. John’s in Annapolis or Santa Fe (Great Books curriculum)
Warren Wilson, Asheville, NC (a work college - everyone works to contribute to campus life)
Bates
Look up test optional schools on fairtest.org
Good luck in your new school!</p>
<p>Sometimes you just have to play the game according to the rules. And the fact that you are on this web site show that you get that. It means you need to practice your test taking to get that SAT score up. Is it a good use of your time? Depends on how you feel about getting into a school that has high academic expectations, and is selective enough not to admit students with lower test scores, who are otherwise a perfect fit. (This is the cyber slap that you asked for.)</p>
<p>For any school you are considering, look at the Common Data Set for the latest school year to see how your stats compare to the pool of admitted students.</p>
<p>Hampshire is possible but the others will be tougher. Levirm’s list is very good and I would look into those schools also. Some others to possibly check into too are Lewis & Clark (OR), Ursinus ¶, Goucher (Baltimore suburbs), Bennington (VT), Sarah Lawrence (NY), Drew (NJ), Bard (NY) and Ohio Wesleyan. All are test optional schools except for OWU. Best of luck!</p>
Then it has to be your essays and recommendations that show it. You also have one more semester to present, so you could consider working for those A’s you know you can earn; schools like an upward trend.</p>
<p>If you have a goal, do what it takes to attain that goal! :)</p>
<p>Wow! Thanks guys. I feel I’m on the up swing of my pre college downer anxiety. I have looked into Hendrix and Bard but I’ll definitely have to look into more of those suggested! I appreciate the cyber slaps, encouragement, and wise words. Do not fret-I will let you guys know how it goes!!</p>
<p>My dad has been suggesting that I look into larger schools with honors programs, and I have, but I do think small liberal arts is what I’ll be most comfortable with.</p>
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