<p>Hi. I'm currently a freshman at a foreign language high school in Korea.
I'm planning to submit my applications next year.
Korean high schools have a three-year curriculum, which means I'm aiming at an early graduation.
However, so far, I've done nothing but take some standardized tests and do some social service at a local hospital.
My class rank isn't that satisfactory, either(about top 20~30%).
However, I have an ardent wish; getting into Stanford or MIT.
I will improve my class rank, definitely.
However, the problem is, I have done too little extracurricular work.
I'm interested in science, and plan to participate in the National Chemistry Olympiad next year.</p>
<p>Are there other cool stuff I can do to help me get into these dream schools?</p>
<p>I have no idea about Stanford, but for MIT...do stuff that interests you, and that reveals something about you that MIT likes (resilience, work ethic, passion for a subject, etc). There's no set formula; don't rely on us to tell you what you "should" do. Also, get good grades and SAT scores.</p>
<p>Be aware that while it certainly happens, MIT is very wary of admitting students young.</p>
<p>jessiehl gives great advice. Another thing you should seriously, seriously consider is WHY you want to attend Stanford and MIT. Is it only for the prestige value? What do you know about students at Stanford and MIT? If they are your "dream" schools, what others would also fulfill you?</p>
<p>If you answer these questions, you may find yourself with more answers to your questions.</p>
<p>Class rank is relative. If your high school is some sort of super high school for Korea's highest achieving kids, then your class rank might be adequate. If not, then you should know that very few US citizens achieve admission to these schools with a class rank like yours.</p>
<p>If you really want to improve your chances, win a prestigious, international science fair, or at least do very, very well in it. Other than that, work hard on your school work. That's the most important thing for you now, I think. More ECs aren't going to be of much value to you, I suspect.</p>
<p>My advice to you is, if you really want to go to school in the US, start looking into other strong programs. Stanford and MIT are dreadfully difficult to get into.</p>