Late ECs

Speaking of ECs…

I went to the high school for 9th-10th grades, then (since they offer no AP classes) went to a community college (technically still in high school). The high school had nothing in the category of math/science clubs, organizations, competitions, etc. It was impossible to even start a club, due to the budget cuts. I am, however, doing math and science ECs starting this year (11th grade) at college. I want to apply to MIT next year, but I am wondering how the lack of 9th-10th grade ECs looks (there was nothing I could do about it)? Also, I am going to Boston University this summer to do research…will this help?

Thanks a lot.

<p>It doesnt hurt to maybe briefly explain your situation to MIT. Considering how competitive MIT is with all the highly qualified applicants who probably have perfect SATs, ECs, GPAs, etc. it could only help. Although you said the community college had no "math/science clubs, organizations, competitions, etc", that doesnt mean you shouldnt have joined anything? MIT, although a math/science school. wouldnt expect every applicant's ECs to be math/science related. Now, explaining why you didnt join anything if there were opportunities is a different subject. Starting classes at BU or joining things now could help, but there are always applicants who held consistency with an EC and that is going to be your applicant pool competition. Dont fret though because there is nothing you can do now. Just write about the ECs you have/will do and let them know you are a dedicated student. Hope that helps!</p>