<p>Problem: I don't meet the foreign language requirement of 3 years in one language or 2 in two languages. In 9th grade I took German. When I switched schools in 10th grade, my new school only sponsered Spanish. However, I had to make up a freshman-level Health credit my school required during the only class period first year Spanish was available. I took Spanish I junior year, and am currently taking Spanish II.</p>
<p>Does this mean I am completely barred from admission? When I found that I did not make Smith minimum requirements, I did the CC college search and my top result was...Smith. It is really the only school I feel excited about.</p>
<p>It would be different if I had lost a credit because of a failing grade or choosing not to take the course. However, this is far from the case- my German average was 96%-97%. My Spanish average is 98%-99%. Spanish is my favorite class. La Professora has mentioned several times she wishes she could have me in Spanish IV. In German, Frau Steers gave me German children's books to translate in my spare time because I enjoyed the class so much. </p>
<p>I will apply even if I have no hope of admission. I will never forgive myself if I don't try. But I was wondering how I should communicate the reason behind my falling short. Should I call in, or mention it on the app? I was thinking of getting a separate letter of reccomendation from my Spanish teacher (and possibly my German teacher)-is this a good idea?</p>
<p>I would not worry about not having taking the minimum recommended number of foreign language classes. It’s just that, a recommended number. They do not sit strictly by that number, or a number of my friends would not have gained admission. Definitely apply, it might help to explain the circumstances of your foreign language background either in an interview or on the application, but I don’t think it will greatly hinder your application.</p>
<p>Your situation is clearly extenuating circumstances. As McP indicates, I wouldn’t sweat it. Not that I blame you for fretting…I recall clearly how many things seemed to loom very large in the calculus at the time of application but which had receded rapidly in the rear view mirror less than a year later.</p>
<p>Having to remind myself of same as D goes through the next cycle now.</p>
<p>I think you should apply. I think you should make sure your guidance counselor mentions this extenuating circumstance in a BRIEF addendum to your normal recommendation, or that you have a foreign language teacher mention it if you are having her write you a letter of recommendation.</p>
<p>However, I am a bit concerned that Smith is the ONLY school you’re excited about–and I would say that if you had 2 years of Spanish or 12. About half the people who apply get rejected. For the ones who do get in, sometimes the financial aid isn’t workable. If you post back with some of the things you like most about Smith, perhaps we could suggest some other places to investigate?</p>
<p>The recommended course requirements are just recommendations, as others have said. There is no rigid course requirement for admission to Smith. So yes, you should definitely apply, particularly if your grades are so good. Maybe get your Spanish teacher to write one of your recommendations. You’ll be fine.</p>
<p>Thanks for the reassurances, guys. I really need as much help as I can get, as I am navigating through the admissions process pretty much alone.</p>
<p>And stacy, I appreciate your help. When I said that Smith was the only school I was excited about, I meant that it was the school I am most excited about. I have applied to 3 state universities, all good schools. But I know that I would be the happiest at Smith. </p>
<p>That said, I do appreciate any suggestions you could give about schools with a similar vibe to Smith. Things I like about Smith: good reputation, nice campus, safe, diverse, accepting. Full of brilliant, open-minded students.</p>
<p>hmm, that’s not a lot to go on, but here are some schools that might be worth looking into (aka, schools I really like that in some way remind me of Smith):</p>
<p>I’m kinda late, but I wouldn’t worry about your situation. If you want, you could add it in your common app section where you can write any extra information. Or, talk it over during your interview if you haven’t had it yet. :)</p>