How can I make my resume and application to Rice University stand out?

Applying to College
1

<p>I live in Texas and its that time in high school when I am seriously thinking about college and where I want to go. I'm still undecided but some questions constantly plague my mind. Should I go to the cheaper community college, which is more affordable, or should I just opt for the university? I've heard plenty of times in school from counselors and classmates that there is a bunch of financial aid out there and scholarships, one just has to look hard enough.</p>

<p>Rice U is my dream school and is sort of like my "harvard". But, Rice is not easy to get into, or so I've heard...
I want to get in so bad but there are several factors that linger me from the pack among other kids in my school. For one, my junior class is huge, and I mean HUGE. Our school has 4,000 kids, in total, and its very competitive. Making it into the top 25% is a huge chore already, let alone the 10 %. My grades this year, mainly my math and science core classes have been anything but stellar. I mean they are not bad... but they aren't great. My school's semester just ended yesterday and next semester I want to really boost up my GPA especially since the junior year is one of the most critical years of high school.</p>

<p>I am in several clubs, so I am not totally out of the school. But when it comes to tests, I am not so good. I just got back my PSAT scores and got a 150. Wow! that is really bad. Especially since its a sign on how good you will do on the actual SAT.</p>

<p>Guys, what can I do to turn my less than great academics turn tip top. Also, how can I make my application stand out against other excellent kids out in the country?</p>

2

<p>i'll help you out since no one has volunteered.
well, PSAT 150. are you a sophomore or junior? If that is an accurate indicator, and I'll say it is, just to make this easier, you're going to have some serious practicing/studying to do. It's doable to get it to Rice's caliber, but it'll be hard, without a doubt.
Continue with your ec's. Perhaps gain a few leadership positions in them. Try your hardest in classes, but don't overload yourself. Still stay healthy, lol.
Most importantly, these things will be (fairly) easier to do. WRITE YOUR ESSAYS!!! Show a personality etc. Whatever you can do to make yourself unique. Write about your personal experiences or a quirky story.
Second, those recs!!! Establish great relationships with your teachers, and when it comes time to choose, choose wisely.
Don't do stuff for the sake of going to college and having it look good on your application, that'll only hurt your chances. Actually show some interest and whatnot.
I hope this helped.
GOOD LUCK!</p>

3

<p>Don't stress too much over your PSAT score. Just study intensively. I got a 158 on my PSAT as a sophomore and I got a 2100 on the actual SAT. As far as everything else goes, I agree with ticktock.</p>

4

<p>I would sign up to take the SAT in either March, May or June. Don't wait until your senior year as then you have few chances to bring up the score. Look closely at your PSAT score report and see if you can identify specific areas you need to work on. Good luck!</p>