How much does Rice care about demonstrated interest?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Rice University
1

<p>I live on the East Coast, and I never really thought about schools in other areas of the country until this summer when I attended the Summer Science Program in New Mexico. A lot of people there were from the southwest and I learned quite a bit about Rice just from talking to these people, and am now pretty sure that I'll be applying. Unfortunately I think it's too late for me to visit at this point considering how far away it is for me. So how much will my lack of demonstrated interest hurt me? The only thing I can think of that may still help at this point is requesting an interview and talking with the alum. Will this help at all?</p>

<p>And while I'm at it, I think I'll ask for some chances predictions too :)</p>

<p>GPA: 4.0 UW, 4.83 W (honors and AP classes get one extra GPA point)
SAT: 2380 (780 CR, 800 M, 800 W)
SAT II's: 800 Math II, 780 Biology-M, 740 World History, 630 Chemistry
AP's: 5s on US Government, Biology, English Language, and World History</p>

<p>EC's: Regional Children's Chorus (9-12) w/ a couple of solos, piano for ten years (a few county/state awards), forensics team (10-12)--two county awards, Interpretive Category Captain (11), voice (10-11), Environmental Club (11-12)
+ swim team at local pool during summers for the past 8 years, Summer Science Program in astrophysics (summer 2007)</p>

<p>Academic Awards: National Merit Semifinalist, Maryland Distinguished Scholar, French National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta</p>

<p>Senior Schedule: AP English Lit, AP French Lang, AP BC Calc, AP Chem (double period), AP Psych, Honors Ancient/Medieval Hist</p>

<p>Prospective majors: biology/biochemistry, physics, geology, maybe a music minor</p>

<p>...I think that's it. So, given my stats, how much do you think my lack of demonstrated interest will hurt me?</p>

2

<p>I don't think it will hurt you exactly, but it won't help you either. If you can I would suggest you interview with an alum and attend local informational sessions, if any, that Rice holds in your area.</p>

3

<p>I never visited until Owl Weekend (after I was accepted). Go ahead with the interview and you should be fine. You seem like a pretty strong candidate already.</p>

4

<p>Given your stats, your lack of "demonstrated interest" will not be a factor provided that your application demonstrates that you know something about Rice and are applying because the university offers opportunities that will help you to reach your goals (and that you have something to contribute in return). Rice has a policy of going after the strongest applicants and is not overly concerned with yield.</p>

5

<p>(you probably know this already, but I'll say it anyway...) be sure to include items about your personality in your application. Rice looks for students who not only have great stats but who are fun/quirky/curious/adventurous, etc. Use the "box" part of the application to demonstrate something uniquely 'you.' </p>

<p>Do try to get an interview, though.</p>