<p>Now I'm only a freshman, about 5 weeks short of completing my freshman year. However, my parents (and grandparents for that matter) have always ingrained in me how important attending college is. Both my parents graduated from the University of Scranton and my grandfather graduated from Wilkes University and spent many successful years at IBM. While I still have three years of high school ahead of me, I'm already beginning to look at potential schools and Penn State is at the top of my list. I am a Pennsylvania native but have lived in Connecticut for many years, thus I will be an out of state applicant. Here are some of my early stats:</p>
<p>Grades- A- average for the third marking quarter. I have a B+/A- average for the year thus far. Classes are not weighted this year but I took three honors classes (English, Modern European and Asian History) and received an A- or A every marking quarter in those classes. All of my other classes are College Prep.</p>
<p>Activities- This is my weakest area. I am a member of my school's Future Business Leaders of America chapter, began playing the piano and I also play golf on a regular basis. I am also planning to do community service this summer, mainly working at the library. This is an area I will drastically attempt to improve next year and I am open to any suggestions.</p>
<p>I do not have any SAT scores yet. </p>
<p>Essentially I want to know what my chances at getting into Penn State-University Park if I were to keep up my grades/activities similar to what I am currently at and along with solid SAT scores?</p>
<p>I honestly didn't think it would be a big deal as a freshman yet I fear bad grades and continually get lectured on how I'll end up being "disappionted" if I don't shape up. Actually, it was a math quiz I choked on that brought me here to ask.</p>
<p>Get involved in a few more activities, and make sure that you like them. Don't go doing random school things just because they look good on college apps. </p>
<p>Grades look excellent, but realize, they aren't everything. Important? Yes. But not everything. Please don't stress out over a B+.</p>
<p>Dont worry. As long as you have decent grades, A's and B's and somewhat good sats you should be in. Of course it is much harder though to get in as an out of stater. Penn State basically takes the first batch, about 25% instaters, based on a computer formula, by sats and grades. I heard they really dont even read the essay or extra curr. Then again, instaters only, if you have say low sats, or low grades, (one or the other) they will let you in but you must begin the summer session. </p>
<p>The key to getting in at Penn State main campus, is to get your application, and transcript in early. My suggestion is as soon as your transcript is ready (in the beginning of Sept of your 12th grade year, apply). My daughter will be going to Penn State main this fall. But I have read on previous threads that kids with much higher stats then my daughter, who were out of state were rejected. So I think your key is apply early, get good grades (Penn State only cares about your grades, so dont take ap classes when you think you may get a c, take the mid track for an A).</p>
<p>Thanks for the info. I'll probably be taking mostly mid-track courses in most subjects. I'll probably be taking AP in history and English, both are my strongest subjects and if they don't help me with PSU, I'm sure they will help my chances with another school.</p>
<p>Any knowledge whether having some relatives who are alumni would boost my chances with PSU?</p>
<p>I heard that only parents who went to Penn State will help you as far as alumni. Unless of course you are related to a large donor of the school, which would probably help. Thats great that you are thinking of colleges now. Penn States app, basically is all online and you just list your extra curr. activities. You still have pleny of time to join activities at your school. Just try to join a language club, maybe the drama club etc.. Things that you dont really need a major commitment, but can list that you have been a member for a number of years. Everything you do at school, keep a list. So you dont forget when you get to 12th grade and you are ready to write your resume. Even if its helping out at a fundraiser, walkathon, etc..</p>