How good do extracurricular activities look on a Cal Poly application?

Colleges & Universities A-Z Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
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<p>I want to apply for Cal Poly’s computer science program. My math is pretty strong, and I am taking calculus next year (my school does NOT offer calculus before senior year) as well as statistics. My life sciences are a little weaker, getting a B in honors biology. I have a little over a 4.0 because of honors (which is only offered starting junior year). I’m worried about this B affecting my chances, but I’m hoping to make up for it with some awesome extra curricular activities. I am an Eagle Scout, I’ve done robotics for 3 years now, we’ve been to several world championships, and I hold a leadership position on the team, and I have done two internships with SPAWAR doing software development, one of which was through SEAP. My friend who was accepted said there wasn’t much room on the application for extra curricular activities and I’m worried they won’t be enough. Can anyone shed some light on whether or not these activities will outweigh a B junior year in a science course when I’m applying for a science major?</p>

<p>Thanks,
EmptyBox</p>

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<p>I can shed that light for you.</p>

<p>I am an incoming software engineer, which is pretty much computer science with more emphasis on practical goals such as “engineering” programs instead of theoretical.</p>

<p>With that said, I got in for regular decision with a 4.22 GPA and pretty subpar 1960 SAT score. I’m sure you could find the freshmen profile on their website somewhere. I too am really strong in math. I had a 740 math score on my SATs and 770 on SAT II (Math 2). I didn’t take the ACTs because people say it’s way easier and I figured because of that, schools don’t value it is much. Plus, all of my friends who took the ACTs in hopes that it would improve their chances all felt like it was pointless. But if you feel like you need to take it, go for it. If your stats look something like that I think you should be fine. I wouldn’t worry too much about that B.</p>

<p>I got a B in Ag. Bio my freshman year (first semester), haha!! Then again, that was freshman year and things change. Like you, I took AP Calculus senior year. I did have a chance to take it junior year but I opted out of it since you’ll need to know remember Calc for when you get to college.</p>

<p>As for extracurriculars, if I remember correctly the Cal Poly app did not really look at them. Maybe I have poor memory, but I remember it just asked me how many hours of community service I did and basics. I do not recall putting in any specific information like what you have listed.</p>

<p>Actually, here’s what I see on my application confirmation document that I had to save after completing apps for records:</p>

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<p>As you can see, there were no specifics, just like ballpark guesses and generalizations. I know Cal Poly advocates strong academics in their apps. I’ve been told numerous times when I’ve gone on tours and whatnot.</p>

<p>So yeah, basically don’t fret too much about that B in Bio. Yeah, it sucks, but if your other stats are great then it shouldn’t matter. I had 3 B’s after junior year (which is what colleges really look at). I did have two more during my senior year but by then it really didn’t matter for me. So I had 5 B’s total in high school and I still got into the best college on the face of this earth. Not too bad, eh?</p>

<p>You’ll be fine! It’s a shame those EC’s will not help you at all but just work hard academically. Let me know if you have any other questions!</p>

<p>Computer scientists/software engineers for the win! :)</p>

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<p>EmptyBox, my son is an incoming Computer Sci major…don’t worry about your extracurriculars, they are more than what he had (though his were decent), and being an Eagle Scout alone is probably enough. with a 4.0 or higher gpa, one B should not hurt you. He also had strong math. Don’t stress too much, I think your chances are good. Be sure to apply to UC’s also. Good luck!</p>

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