How far of a reach is too far?

Parents Forum
41

<p>"For example, he has never written a research paper. He probably has not written anything longer than five pages, ever. He has read a few novels for his English classes, and a few current nonfiction books for History classes, but otherwise the reading for his classes consists solely of a textbook, published probably in the 1980s. He has supplemented his eduction by reading a lot on his own but that is not the same as facing a selective college courseload of who knows how many books a week."</p>

<p>This described me to a T (although it was a while ago). I came from a high school like your son's, and then attended one of the schools you've mentioned, and although it was a lot more work than I was used to, I loved it, and it was certainly doable. Your son may find particular challenges in one or two subjects (for me it was French), but if he's bright and likes to learn, he will do well in most classes, and well over all.</p>

42

<p>I would also recommend American and take a look at Goucher and Lewis & Clark, two internationally focused LACs that might be admissions and financial safeties for your son. I wouldn't worry about class rank. My son was 13 or 14 in his class because of 2 B+s freshman year. He got in everywhere he applied. Your son sounds like an intellectually curious student who is willing to work. He should do fine anywhere he's admitted as long as he uses the resources of the school as needed</p>