Notre Dame: EA or RD? Chances?

Hi,

I’m currently a senior at a small, private, catholic school in IL and I was wondering whether it would be better for me to apply to ND’s EA or RD. Here are some of my stats:

  • Ranked 1 of 66 in my class
  • Weighted GPA: 4.29
  • UW GPA: Believe it's around 3.7
  • 31 ACT
  • I've taken 3/4 AP classes offered at my HS
  • Member of NSHSS (National Society of High School Scholars)
  • Illinois State Scholar
  • Taken 3 college courses (Psychology, Speech, Music Appreciation)
  • Member of several clubs
  • 3 sport athlete, tennis captain
  • 100+ hours of community service
  • Brother is currently attending ND

Some people say that it’s only a good idea to apply EA if your’re a strong candidate, so I’m a little unsure because my ACT of a 31 and my UW GPA of around a 3.7 are a little below the average for ND. I’m afraid to get flat out denied if I apply EA. Would it be better for me to retake the ACT, improve my score, and apply RD?

Please help!