<p>I've recently been searching for Universities with strong film programs, and Syracuse's S.I. Newhouse School keeps popping up wherever I look. I've done extensive research and think it would be a perfect fit for me. The only problem is my grades. They definitely aren't up to par and I was wondering if EC's are a big part of admissions, because I have some good ones, especially geared toward my preferred major (Television Radio and Film). I've also been considering applying ED because I heard that might help as well. Please help me out and give me advice!! And don't be shy to tell me the truth!!</p>
<p>GPA: 3.18
SAT: Haven't recieved my scores yet but I expect them to be between 1650-1850</p>
<p>EC: Won 2 Scholarships from Austin Film Festival
I've had multiple short films entered into SXSW
Worked on 2 feature films
Helped make local commercials
Recorded my high school football games
4 years of AV production classes
I've made promotional videos for schools at the University of Texas
I've made various other videos for school events
I know I can get letters of recommendation from professors from UT as well.</p>
<p>I would suggest you first decide whether you are seeking Newhouse for TV/Radio/Film or VPA for Film, if you haven’t already. Syracuse has two different Film programs. VPA has a completely different approach to Film. One might be more suited to your goals than the other.</p>
<p>I don’t know about VPA, but for Newhouse I think the greatest impact maker you can do right now is to take steps to show them you’re as smart as the average Newhouse acceptance. You can do this in three ways:<br>
Plan on getting a 4.0 or higher during your first term of senior year. AP and IB courses make this easier to achieve b/c they add 1 point to the GPA calculation and show your an upper tier student.
Top 25% at Syracuse starts at 1900 for SAT. You need to live in that top 25% ballpark. Plan on taking the SAT again in the fall. Study your brains out this summer. The average student increases their SAT score 100 points the second time they take it. A best of score of 2000 or better will get their attention.
Take the ACT. Some people do better in ACT than SAT (and visa versa). Plan on taking it twice. Top 25% is a score of 28. Strive to get a 30 combined or better.</p>
<p>You’ve got real strong EC’s. Now show them you’re smart.</p>
<p>I assume your applying to UT @ Austin of course. Also a great film program.</p>
<p>Newhouse is one of Syracuse’s most selective schools, if not the most. Definitely aim for 2000 on the SAT to increase your chances (or a corresponding score on the ACT). However, you definitely have strong EC’s and should have a great chance at getting in!</p>
<p>Thanks guys!! How heavily do you think EC’s are weighed in the admissions process? Because if they’re weighed pretty heavily I’d say I have a decent shot…</p>