<p>I'm in 9th grade right now and I just wanted to see if I'm on the right track to get into a good school. Can you guys just tell me if I'm on the right track based on what I'm doing. I go to a really good private school and got 5 A's and like 2 B's last semester, two of those A's being honors classes (in the only subject which theyre offered). I play trombone (all-state), trumpet, and piano (also compete in festivals, theory and solo). I play lacrosse and our school is ranked #2 in Delaware and am starting on JV right now. I also play at the elite travel level. I've been raising money for MS since I was in 5th grade and look to put in more hours next year. I am taking spanish now and I'm starting using Rosetta Stone to learn Chinese since my school doesnt offer it. I was just wondering if I am looking good in the long run and what else I should start doing to look good on my college applications.</p>
<p>You’re definitely on the right track. It feels like just yesterday I was a freshman thinking the exact same things as you and asking the exact same questions - What do I need to do? Am I doing good enough? How do I guarantee I’ll get in? Well, unfortunately, there is no guarantee. All you can do is try your hardest, try to reach your fullest potential, and, at the end of the day, be proud of what you accomplished, because that’s really all that matters. Obviously you want to try to get as best grades as possible. Many colleges say they don’t look seriously at freshman grades. So try your best to get as many As and A+s as possible these next three years. And of course work hard to get the SAT and SAT II scores you need. That’s definitely crucial.</p>
<p>But beyond grades and scores, colleges simply look for people who are true to themselves, have real character, and are passionate not only about learning but about something else, as well. If throughout high school you do things you’re passionate about and show devotion to them, colleges will see that and they’ll appreciate it. You said you’ve been raising funds for MS - if that’s important to you, keep pursuing it. There’s no specific advice I can give you on what to do. Beyond academics, take the time to pursue what you love. Use your summer vacations to explore new things and have unique experiences that can help you shine. Think of a way that you can stand out from all of the other thousands of applicants. I personally think that if you find a way to tie and intertwine your personal experiences and values with your passions/activities throughout high school and demonstrate this in your application, colleges will love it. What I mean is - after they read your application, it’s great if they really have a sense of who you are and remember you for one specific thing - like your passion for fighting MS because of some personal experience that motivated you for instance. You’re only a freshman, so you’ve got plenty of time. Just remember, colleges want real, unique, interesting people who can contribute something new to their campus. Figure out how to show them that’s exactly what you’ll do if they accept you. Best of luck!</p>