Hi so I’m interested in Caltech but the only stem EC I have is placing for an individual and team plaque for NJ Bio League. Other than that I have, among other things:
ACT- 36 (35 in science, all subsections in super score)
BIO CHEM and MATH 2 Subject tests- 800
GPA- 4.27 with one A- in Spanish 3 H
AP 5s- US History, Chemistry, Biology, and Calculus BC
AP 4s- World History
To Be Taken- Comp Sci A, Human Geo, Statistics, Spanish Language, Environmental Science, Physics EM and Mechanical
Eagle Scout
4 Yrs Marching Band
How much will the lack of stem EC’s hurt my chances? Thanks for everyone’s time!
P.S. Does anyone have a suggestion for which Subject Tests to Send?
Can you send all the subject tests? Can’t say for sure about the ECs – you would be going into a full immersion, very intense tech experience if you got in and attended there. They care about (1) can you succeed, and (2) would you thrive?
They do care about ECs:
http://m.admissions.caltech.edu/content/admissions-process-first-year-applicants
You need to be able to show that consistent interest in STEM that they talk about. I do think you have a chance in your essays. Not every thing that might qualify rises to the level of being an activity on the app, too. Like one of my kids collected insects. Not really a formal activity in terms of awards and groups. But a topic she could talk about in essays for tech schools.
Agree. Consistent interest, testing that interest, showing the mindset. And even at Caltech, showing you can engage with others, try new things, stretch. Not just study.
Yeah I definently do a lot of Stem things that don’t make the grade for an activity. Talking about those things is a great idea. Thanks!