My Chances At Caltech?

Colleges and Universities A-Z California Institute of Technology
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<p>Greetings to the College Confidential Community. Starting this Fall 2013, I will be a Sophomore. I am a prospective applicant to Caltech as it is one of my dream schools. Although it is a bit early to judge, I wanted to hear from you if I stand out as a competitive applicant. Any criticism to my future application is welcome.</p>

<p>A Little History About Me: As a student, I've always been stubborn yet passionate about the subjects I study. STEM Obviously interests me the most and I have felt this passion ever since the 1st Grade. </p>

<p>My Current Stats: 2012-2013</p>

<p>Freshman Course Load: English 1 Honors
Geometry Honors
Biology 1 Honors, Gifted
World History Honors
Marching Band / Concert Band
Career Research and Decision Making
Workplace Essentials PS / Level 2</p>

<p>Summer 2013 - DE: College Algebra</p>

<p>Unweighted GPA: 4.000</p>

<p>Weighted GPA: 4.600</p>

<ul>
<li>Summer 2013 - I am currently doing Dual Enrollment: College Algebra at Community College.</li>
</ul>

<p>SAT - N/A</p>

<p>ACT- N/A</p>

<p>PSAT- 135/240 (Didn't study and just tried to see how I would do.</p>

<p>PERT - Math 146/150, CR 110/150, Writing 108/150</p>

<p>Extracurricular Activities: Mu Alpha Theta Math Club, Science Competitors Club, Asian Culture Club, Marching Band, Piano and Clarinet Lessons, Badminton.</p>

<p>Major Awards (USAMO, Intel, Etc.) - None</p>

<p>Minor Awards - 7th Place at Regional Algebra 1 Competition
6th Place at Regional Geometry Competition
District Envirothon Champion on Special Topics and Current Issues
Performed In Honors Jazz Musics Festival
Principal's Honor Roll</p>

<p>Income Bracket: Less than $10,000. (I live with my single mother.)</p>

<p>Gender: Male</p>

<p>Ethnicity: Asian (Indian)</p>

<p>Next Year (Fall 2013), I plan to take the following courses: English 2 Honors
Pre Calculus Honors
Chemistry 1 Honors
AP European History
AP Environmental Science
AP Physics B</p>

<p>Conclusion: As of now, those are my current stats. There is more to me than meets the eye. Although I am quite immature and stubborn and a tad arrogant, I truly have a passion for STEM. I believe that going to Caltech isn't my ultimate goal. Attending Caltech is rather the next logical decision to fulfilling my passion of working in a STEM Major. I ask all College Confidential Members to Rate Me as if I was a senior entering college as I truly do need as much constructive criticism as possible. This can include What Are My Weaknesses and such. Thanks to all members in advance.</p>

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<p>A word from a mom: try to give too much identifying info on CC. Giving your stats is fine, but do not mention your HS.</p>

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<p>JJoy - Please leave out information which can point to you in future posts.</p>

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<p>I understand texaspg. However, I still would like some imput from the CC community regarding my original question.</p>

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<p>I think you’ll have a good chance. I wish you luck :)</p>

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<p>Obviously, a passion is a good thing to have and can catalyze many great things in your life. Since you’re a rising sophomore, there’s not a lot anyone on here can judge you by. You still have grades to earn, the SAT/ACT/SAT IIs/APs/etc. to take, clubs/outside activities to distinguish yourself in, and yada-yada-yada. Hang around CC if you want tips on how to improve yourself and in turn your chances, but don’t expect feedback so soon.</p>

<p>As a side note: Check out what the jury says on “My Chances” and other places on CC with a grain of salt. Keep in mind the logic that anyone who chances you and then asks you to chance them back probably won’t be accurate in their responses. In the end, be aware of your values, remain confident (but not overly so) in your abilities, and frankly face reality when you apply to colleges a few years down the road. Have fun along the way!</p>