<p>Just wondering about my chances with 13 days to go...</p>
<p>I go to one of the top math/sci schools in the country so no rank,
GPA 3.5 (does this kill me right away?)
They divide us based on GPA into 4 tiers and I'm only tier 2
(800 720 780) = 2300
SAT math ii -800
physics - 750
chem-720 (will this also hurt)</p>
<p>ECs...strong math/science student
Math Team leader
Sunday School Teacher/Starter
Physics Team
Sci Olympiad
Cross Country varsity winner
AIDS Awareness founder/VP
Model UN</p>
<p>Additionally, I have heard that Vanderbilt cares a lot about the essay, but I have not started my Why Vanderbilt essay yet. I expect it to be around 500 words long, but not too great. Is that long enough, and will this hurt me drastically?</p>
<p>Oh man, if I had just heard about this university a little earlier... I'm starting to really like it...</p>
<p>You will get in without too much trouble, as long as you don't screw up the essay. It doesn't have to be perfect, just make sure you tell them some reasons why you want to go there that they don't hear all the time (i.e. do not say weather, reputation, hot girls, etc...). </p>
<p>And a 720 on a SAT II will definitely not be a problem, especially since SAT IIs are optional for Vandy.</p>
<p>o man, i dunno about that 720 on chem--there's always community college.</p>
<p>I think your chances are great. In the Why Vandy essay, talk about how its becoming your first choice, demonstrate interest, and maybe talk about their strengths in academics being similar to yours (math, science...)</p>
<p>500 words is too long if it sucks, perfect if you cover everything, and not long enough if you can't get your point across....basically length doesnt matter, just make sure you say everything you need to, and keep it interesting.</p>
<p>"500 words is too long if it sucks, perfect if you cover everything, and not long enough if you can't get your point across....basically length doesnt matter, just make sure you say everything you need to, and keep it interesting."</p>
<p>well written.</p>
<p>yes, of course you have a chance. your SAT scores put you well over the top. your GPA isn't far off either.</p>