<p>Dear all,</p>
<p>As a rising HS junior, I have only recently realized my affinity for engineering--mechanical/chemical engineering in particular. I possess a strong aptitude for math and science (I will be taking Calc BC + AP Chem as a junior, then probably intros to college math courses like Differential Equation + AP Physics as a senior), so I think I am suited for this financially stable, highly coveted career.</p>
<p>Since this realization is only recent, I haven't participated much in activities and programs that would help to prepare me better for college admissions/college academics. My question is: What kind of summer programs/enrichment courses/school clubs should I be involved in as a potential engineering student? Please take into consideration that I am an international student, currently studying at a US boarding school.</p>
<p>Also, I plan to apply to Stanford, UCB, UMich, GT. Is anyone privy to the acceptance rate for OOS/International Students at large state schools liks UMich and GT? What are some other colleges I should look into?</p>
<p>In my opinion, you have an academically rigorous curriculum (good). Now, do you have any clubs that you’re really active in? I didn’t have any engineering specific activities before applying to engineering schools, but I still got into all the places I applied (RPI, Drexel, Purdue, Penn State, U Pitt). I was however quite active in 2-3 clubs (Business and Mentoring related), my GPA and SAT scores were pretty good, and I was also in a bunch of honors societies. However, if your school has a good engineering club that does projects, no harm in joining and being very active.</p>
<p>All you have to do to prepare for college academics is realize that you might get F’s on assignments and tests, and it’ll be ok if you do. Just realize your mistakes and improve from there. Also, try to go to every class, do all the homework assignments, go to office hours/ study groups. It might be very, very hard sometimes, but work harder, don’t make excuses.</p>
<p>When I was applying to colleges I focused on a few things: My GPA, SAT, club activities (“resume”), and essay.</p>
<p>I personally like Purdue…</p>
<p>Can you and your family afford list price at any of the schools you are considering?</p>
<p>If not, you may have to add less expensive schools like Virginia Tech, North Carolina State, Stony Brook, Cal Poly SLO, South Dakota Mines, New Mexico Mines, etc. to your application list.</p>
<p>Also, you have not mentioned your academic credentials, so no one can say anything about your chances for any of these schools.</p>