<p>Hi, guys 
So, like I said, this isn’t a chance me type of thing. I pretty much know that Brown is a “reach” for me; I have good grades, pretty good SAT scores (which would have been very good IF I was better at math) and I’m taking the SAT IIs in a few weeks. I graduated a year early because I was offered a spot in a very prestigious program training with an Olympic equestrian; as a lifelong rider I couldn’t pass up this once in a lifetime opportunity. I got a lot out of it and will probably write one of my essays on the experience. Other than that, I’ve been writing for a community newspaper for a few years, been a theatre-geek (with many leads as well as officer status and set/costume design) for over ten years, and have a bunch of other ECs - all of them are things I’m PASSIONATE about, not things I did to flesh out a college resume. In fact, passionate is one of the top adjectives that could be used to describe me - and the teachers who are writing my recs say the same thing. I have fallen head over heels for Brown - I really think it would be a great match for me, and it would offer my opportunities to pursue all my interests. I’m hoping to get recruited for the equestrian team, also.
Basically at this point I’m weighing the pros and cons of applying ED vs RD. I would love to make the plunge and apply ED but I’ve heard that you should only go this route if you’re the absolute creme-de la-creme of applicants - straight As all your life and the like. I have a really good, unique idea for one of my essays; one that will definitely be memorable (without being too risky and potentially irritating or offensive to admissions officers) and in a perfect world I’d love to just get it all in and have it done with and know!!! I’m also going to submit an art supplement and a theatre supplement, probably.
Anyway, to wind up this novel…what, in your opinion, would be the best option for me? I’d love to hear everyone’s thoughts - fellow applicants and current Brunonians alike Thanks, everyone!!
:D</p>
<p>…
bump? :)</p>
<p>If Brown is your first choice, if financial aid is not an issue – then apply ED. </p>
<p>Don’t apply ED if money is a big issue (you need to compare financial aid packages), if you think your transcript would be stronger applying RD (and that doesn’t apply to you) and if you aren’t sure the school is your first choice. </p>
<p>Your reason for not applying, that you are not the “creme de la creme” of applicants – makes no sense. Since you don’t really know what admissions is looking for, how do you know that you are not the “creme de la creme”? In many people’s eyes, training with an Olympic athlete makes you pretty special. Your background might be exactly what admissions is looking for.</p>
<p>Thanks, fireandrain. I guess I’ve been listening to a little too much “advice” from people I know who say that first and foremost, the Ivies want absolutely amazing grades. Of course, one of the reasons I adore Brown is because they do place such an emphasis on what makes the applicant unique…sometimes I stress myself out about these things and forget that that applies to me, too! Haha! I am certainly leaning towards ED right now :)</p>
<p>Are you competitive?
Have you been in touch with the Brown Equestrian Team coaches?</p>
<p>[Brown</a> Bears](<a href=“http://www.brownbears.com/sports/c-equest/index]Brown”>http://www.brownbears.com/sports/c-equest/index)
Ask the coach.</p>
<p>I did send an email to Michaela, the coach, but she hasn’t gotten back to me yet. From what I’ve heard, the NCAA has really strict rules about coaches communicating with potential recruits out side of their guidelines - which involve a $60 membership, athletic profile, and riding videos. Depending on my schedule and whether or not I’ll have time, I may very well do that. I am going down next month and attending a team practice, so I’ll try to have a chat with her then too. I would LOVE to be recruited.</p>