<p>I was hoping someone out there could give me some advice. I am a sophomore. I have been seriously ill for the past five years. I am able to attend school for only two hours each day. I hope to have my illness resolved by senior year, but there are no guarantees in life. Since I have been ill, I have had to cut my extracurricular activities. (I used to volunteer at the local senior center, volunteer at the local no-kill animal shelter, paint, play piano, etc.) I have kept my grades up (all As) and am currently taking two Honors courses and one AP course (and other courses, obviously). I took the PSATs this past fall and got an 80 in Critical Reading, 64 for Math, and a 70 for Writing. I would like to go to a top-tier school, but am uncertain how to present myself on the application. My lack of current extracurriculars, jobs, etc. is not due to apathy, but inability. Obviously, I have some time before I have to apply, but I want to prepare. Any suggestions would be appreciated.</p>
<p>That’s rough. But you’re on a good track even for a student who hasn’t been as ill. </p>
<p>Who can help you document what you have been doing in light of your personal circumstances?</p>
<p>It depends on what you mean. My teachers have worked with me to make the coursework fit within my time constraints, and they have obviously seen my work. However, while they know I am ill, they do not know much about what I have been dealing with. The only people who know that besides myself are my parents, my doctors, and a few friends. What type of things should I document?</p>
<p>I’d think that it would be more your counselor documenting this as important information in the counselor’s report, which will help provide context and also make it clear to colleges that this is something you’ve been coping with for years. You probably will need to talk with the counselor about how much of the details you do/don’t want the counselor to disclose, such as whether a specific disease or condition is mentioned. One of the kids in school with my daughter was educated as a homebound student for a couple of years because of treatment for cancer and the need to avoid people with his very compromised immune system. He returned to school later in high school, and headed off to a good college this fall. I’d be very surprised if the counselor hadn’t mentioned this in her writeup. </p>
<p>Best of luck to you.</p>
<p>Thank you for your advice!</p>
<p>I agree with arabrab. Have a school official document the reasons for the lack of activities, and you should be good. After all, you’re evaluated in light of your circumstances, and the fact that you’ve kept your grades so high in the face of serious illness is impressive.</p>