Help for an average student

<p>My son, who has previously been scornful of the time I spend on CC, came to me tonight asking if I knew of any colleges for his friend. I do not have specifics. He is a high 2. something gpa, has some leadership EC's and some work experience, but not much else. Is now sorry he did not take SAT's or SAT II's or apply to any schools. ( he can probably still register in the next day or so for January SAT's if anyone will take them.) Has a tough family life, but not the sort that would be of interest to an admissions office. He lives in Southern California. Can anyone think of anyway for him to avoid living at home and attending the CC down the street? I'm looking for CA or Western Exchange schools that might have rolling or late (January 15th?) application deadlines and will not cost $40,000.00 per year (family not supportive and will not pay). Naturally, the kid is a genius... one of the smartest kids my son has ever met. Has taken rigorous courses, probably 8 or more AP's. Any suggestions? Thanks!</p>

<p>Maybe WWU (Western Washington University)? I'm not sure about the deadline, but I think it's pretty late. It's also not as competitive as, say, UW... and I would assume the Western Exchange is in effect there, but like I said, I'm not sure. I'd consider looking into it, maybe.</p>

<p>Taking a productive gap year by working or volunteering full-time and living away from home if his home situation is not supportive. Americorps, a volunteer program that also provides training, a living stipend, and $4,700 that participants can use for college expenses after their Americorps year, can be excellent for the type of student whom you describe. If you check out my previous posts, you'll learn how a gap year as an Americorps volunteer helped my younger S develop the organizational skills and maturity to now be in a LAC with a 3.6 average. (Older S went straight to a 4-year college out of state where his high scores, tough curriculum and strong ECs made him a stand-out. He flunked out and at age 23 hasn't returned to college).</p>

<p>I have several friends with sons similar to the guy whom you describe. In one case, the guy's parents insisted that he live at home and attend community college. He had an "A" average there, eventually transferred to our state's flagship university, graduated with honors and plans to go to law school after spending a year traveling in Asia at his own expense. When the young man's parents insisted that he turn down 4 year colleges in the state where he desired to live, I thought they were being mean. I now see they are right.</p>

<p>Males are a very desireable at most colleges since with the exception of places like engineering schools, females are the majority of applicants (especially top ones0 at virtually all colleges, particularly liberal arts colleges. If your S's friend gets his act together such as by taking a productive gap year, he would be in a position to get merit scholarships and admission at a variety of colleges. However, right now, I don't see the evidence that he has the motivation and maturity to graduate from college despite his intelligence, so I think he'd best benefit by taking a productive gap year while supporting himself and living away from home if his current home is not a good place for him to be in. </p>

<p>Do Google Americorps to find out more info about the program.</p>

<p>Bessie, the following schools appear to have no closing dates for admissions: Oregon State, Western Oregon, Southern Oregon, Nevada Reno and UNLV (Feb 1st). I don't know anything about them but just wanted to mention them just in case. They all accept a good number of applicants and a decent amount within the gpa range you mentioned. It also looks like the 3 Oregon schools accept later SAT scores. Unsure on the Nevada schools. Tuition/room/board are a lot less than the figure you posted. Good luck!</p>

<p>If $$ is a serious issue, why not attend a CC and then transfer?
:( too bad the Calstates deadlines were nov 30..</p>

<p>The University of Arizona lists May 1, 2008 as the application deadline for freshman applicants for the Fall 2008 semester. Many Southern California students are happy there and the admissions process is more open than the UCs.</p>

<p>Thanks for the suggestions. I think the gap year is a good idea and I will pass all of this along. NSM is right though, the kid has to be ready to make good decisions. No one can do this for him. (How well I know this in my own family!)</p>

<p>Some Cal State campuses are still accepting applications. You can check by location and major at:</p>

<p>CSUMentor</a> - Apply Online - Status Report</p>

<p>He can also apply at Purdue.</p>

<p>Cal States would be a good option, if money is an issue. </p>

<p>I also second the recommendation for WWU! It's a little known (but very cool) institution. My friends who have visited love it.</p>