I really want to get into the University of Michigan. Im instate, applying to LSA. When i say i want to get in, i mean i REALLY want to get in–Michigan has everything i could ever want in a school, and more.
Ive signed up to get emails from them, ive gone on 1 campus tour so far (i plan on taking 2 more), i am participating in the Michigan Math and Science Scholars program at the school this summer, and im also planning on emailing my regional counselor and introducing myself. Can i show demonstrated interest in other ways, or have i done everything possible?
Another worry of mine is my test scores. My uwGPA right now is somewhere around a 3.85. (This will go up or down depending on what my final grades of the year are). I have yet to get my SAT scores back, but i have taken the ACT twice (1 with no studying and 1 with minimal studying), and got a 25 composite each time. Im aiming for a 30 or higher and im studying like crazy for it. If, however, i ended up with something like a 29, which is below average, but showed tons of demonstrated interest, would i still be accepted because of the passion ive shown? Or would they reject me because of my scores?
Also–how do you show your passion in the essays? I know its good to do in-depth research into the school, and while im on campus during the MMSS program this summer, im going to try and make my best impression on the professors so i can possibly mention them in my essay, but how else do you show passion and interest in the essays?
Thanks
Wait for your SATs to come back, if they are of the same or lower level of your ACTs, I would study more and take them again. Also, work as hard as you can to maintain and build upon that 3.85 cumulative uwGPA.
For demonstrated interest: I believe this is a minimal thing they consider (check Common Data Set for official priority), and I think it is more relevant for out-of-state students than in-state students. I honestly think that you have your demonstrated interest covered more than enough.
For your essays: I believe the key is making sure one could not replace wherever the “University of Michigan” is mentioned in your essay with another college/university - all while making sure your essay is not straight up quoting UofM brochures/promotion materials/website. What do you want in a college, and how will it prepare you for the kind of life you want to live, and the things you want to do? How will UofM help you do that? Your essays are pretty important, so do not do these in the last moment. Finish them during the summer, and have trusted people read them throughout the early fall and provide feedback before you submit your application for early action (Make sure you apply in early action!).
I hope this helps - and good luck!
With something this important to you, why take the ACT without preparing the very, very best you can? Getting that score up when it has almost as much weight as the four years out into your GPA is where to focus; along with starting your essay early and working in the summer, before your busy Sr year begins.