You have got to go back to the colleges’web sites and start to learn what they look for, in terms of academic rigor and success, how your choices of activities show your awareness and drives, and the sort of thinking and activation they like.
It’s not expensive summer programs or big whoop de do things. Many small efforts, done right, can speak volumes. But first you have to get your source info right. That will help you organize your thoughts,make the right choices, and make a good self presentation.
Then you need the right targets, for your whole record, including happy safeties with the right fin aid. Run the NPCs for colleges you have in mind.
Ever Since I was in the 9th grade, I’ve looked up, scavengered the internet, researched, and studied the trend with college addmissions. I’ve come to a big realization and its the reason why so many people get upset with elite schools. Just because youre a low income, excellent student with an amazing SAT score… So what?? No offense but this is what all college admission officers thing. SO what?? SO are thousands of other students! Many students out there get a 4.0 GPA and live in one room houses with 5 kids. So if 50,000 other students are living in the same circumstances, how would they differntiate and know who to admit??? I could rant on and on… But ill just make this short. Find a passion. Build on it. If you like something, take courses on it outside your school (they have online ones, message me if you want links to sources). Volunteer at places you love, take leadership positions, join a club, or even better make a club! Show that youre outgoing and enthusiastic. Build your resume and i can assure you that if you do just enough, you can get admitted into an elite school with a 3.5 GPA. As long as you have a good resume and a decent transcript (doesnt have to be perfect but good enough) then your semi-good (semi because you still have your SATs and standardized tests). So dont fuss about stuff like where youre from or how much money your parents get.
Stop looking for a hook and just live your own life. You know it’s not so easy for privileged kids either - fighting for a spot with all the other high achievers. It’s not easy for anybody.
Most schools claim to be need blind in admissions, so the admissions office shouldn’t know what the income level is. Yes, there are usually things that give it away like Questbridge or an indication in the essay, but the school shouldn’t know if the family makes $20k or $80k.