Non-Traditional and Community College to UChicago, Help?

Transfer Students
1

<p>I was diagnosed with depression since 8th grade. Needless to say, between family turmoil, losing insurance for medication for a long time, and mental illness, I did very mediocre in school and took a long hiatus after highschool. We all have our story; I'm grateful for mine. I don't think I can mention it much in my application, because it seems to be a bit discriminated against -- liability I suppose.</p>

<p>First year, I did weak, feeling myself out and working kinks. Only the last three semesters will be straight A's. </p>

<p>I have two more semesters to make the best of it. It may be too little too late but still need to try. UChicago is the only school with the milieu I'm looking for.</p>

<p>Age: 24 (by the time I apply)
GPA: 3.7 (will be)
SAT: Haven't taken (and they require it). Hypothetically: a 2100+
Also: 4 W's (yikes...)
LoR: They should be good
Essay: haven't written yet</p>

<p>Volunteering for a local nonprofit, American Association for Lost Children. I'll be going on an investigation in a few months and working on writing for grants. Working on independent psychology research for honors program. Working on starting a psychology club. Submitting an essay for Ayn Rand contest. Phi Theta Kappa (hopefully hold a position). If I can get enough people, I'd love to do a Brain Awareness Week. </p>

<p>I know a lot of it is iffy. Not sure how much I need to enhance and how far a good essay will go. I only have two semesters to build up momentum to do something extra and starting on my heels here. I spent a lot of my time just reading school-unrelated informational books, because I enjoyed it. Bad move! Still brooding over what else could show ability and standout, that I could be sincere about.</p>

2

<p>Pick up the phone, call the transfer admissions office at U of C, and ask them for their advice. As a non-trad, you fall into a distinctive category.</p>

<p>If your own CC has a good Transfer Advisor, that person should be able to help you with this as well.</p>

<p>Good luck!</p>

3

<p>Sorry I don’t think you have a chance. Why is Chicago the only school that has the milieu you are looking for? I know a lot of people who didn’t transfer there from community college with much better stats than you. Everyone has their own struggles and you having depression won’t make you an exception.</p>

4

<p>I appreciate the honesty! I meant by being the only school I’d bother going to other than my nearby state school, University of Pittsburgh. I’ll be fine wherever I go. And yeah, I’m not holding my breath; I’m realistic about it all.</p>