<p>I think with your approach, attitude, and initiative, you are very likely to be successful no matter where you go. I think you should apply; to not try is assured defeat. At least toss an application to the top need blind schools… </p>
<p>If you maintain the rigor and get great grades, you should be able to pull up your GPA and demonstrate a strong upward trend. I would try to do exceptionally well on the ACT and SATs as you are already doing. Definitely take them by spring of Junior year. My son took the ACT in February and forgot his calculator which brought down his math score which brought down his composite to 32. Taking it earlier allowed him time to retake it in April and he got a perfect score. Definitely review a few old tests before taking it. He took it with absolutely zero prep the first time and to play it safe the second time, he reviewed a few old tests for the math and science sections the week before taking it. He said there was one question on the test he took that was on one of the old tests; that one question could have made the difference between a 35 and the 36. While a 35 is a fantastic score, there is a significant statistical leap in getting the 36, only 6 in 10,000 get the perfect score.</p>
<p>Regarding ECs: I would personally be more impressed with about 3 ECs that a student showed clear passion about and demonstrated leadership in some capacity than a laundry list of stuff… although I do note that most of these students do seem to have an extensive list of ECs that make my eyes glaze over.</p>
<p>Congratulations on the great work despite situational adversities. I think your situation of hardship and being first generation attending college may help in terms of perspective in evaluating your candidacy… I believe it does with U.S. applicants and I am not as familiar with international applicants. Wishing you continued success…</p>