<p>I'm a girl who is a freshman in high school. It has always been my dream to go to Stanford for Computer Science. I'm taking the most advanced core classes possible this year (Honors English I, Honors Biology, Honors Algebra II and Trigonometry, AP World History, Chinese I, and I'm also really into Choir). I have all A's in all my classes, and the highest possible GPA for a freshman (4.57 weighted, or 4.0 unweighted). Although I'm not in AP CompSci, I am taking the AP test for that class this year since I take a class out of school. I plan on taking several AP courses throughout the next 3 years of high school. I am also a strong writer.</p>
<p>I know that colleges look to see if you are a well-rounded individual in terms of extra-curriculars... I have been playing the Indian flute for 4 years, I self-learned the ukulele and I'm really passionate about it, I made Chamber Choir (auditioned choir group) as a freshman, I was on my high school's tennis team this year (I was on JV, but I hope to move up in the future), and I take a computer programming class outside school (which I really enjoy) and I'm currently learning Java and will be learning C++ after. I also placed first at Regionals for Varsity Science Olympiad as a Freshman (I intend on placing at state during the next 3 years), and in 7th and 8th grade, I placed Best In State for Science Fair. I have 50 volunteer hours already from computer programming related opportunities. I am really, really passionate about all the extra-curriculars I do.</p>
<p>I haven't taken the ACT or SAT yet so I don't have scores for those tests currently... I know Stanford has an extremely low acceptance rate, and academics alone will not get me in. What must I do or continue doing in order to have a chance at getting into Stanford? What kinds of special talents make a person stick out?
Thank you!</p>
<p>Freshmen always need to keep in mind that there is no magic formula that will guarantee you a spot in the top 5% of Stanford’s (or any other top tier school’s) application pool. However there are some things you should keep in mind as you go through your high school career (for college apps in general).
-Keep your grades up.
-Do your best on the SAT/ACT. Do whatever you can (short of cheating) to maximize your scores on the standardized tests.
-Use your time in high school to figure out what you really love doing and participate in extracurricular activities that match said interest. Many people suffer from “weak” ECs because they join a bunch of clubs/teams, but don’t show any drive, interest, or dedication.
-Remember that Stanford, Harvard, Princeton, etc have really low acceptance rates (5%). Even if you’re the most qualified student in your high school you might not get accepted at any of these schools.
-When you start writing your essays make sure your “voice” shines through. Anyone can get all As. Very few people can write a really god essay. </p>
<p>You can’t to anything to guarantee a spot at Stanford. That’s impossible. But try your hardest and maintain that GPA. Also try to get the best score possible on your SAT or ACT. I think a 2200+ is a good goal. Lastly, try to make yourself stand out. Is there something you’re really good at? Get to the national level. Love helping people out? Fundraise for your favorite cause. Have a great idea? Start a company, create an app. The trick is to go to extra mile. Do something original. This by no means guarantees admission to Stanford, but will make you stand out at top schools from all the other applicants with amazing grades and scores. Best of luck.</p>