<p>I was wondering if upward grade trends are attractive to colleges compared to a student that maintained a stable A all throughout high school. In my case, my GPA was a 3.7 freshman year, 3.3 during sophomore year (unfortunately, chemistry brought down my grade a lot) and I'm currently in junior year. So far, I've aced most of my tests this year and plan on having a much higher GPA through more effort and dedication. </p>
<p>I also took slightly challenging classes, such as Honors Bio during freshman year (A), and AP US History during sophomore year (A-). This year, the only challenging classes I had offered to me was Physics, which I am doing well in so far. </p>
<p>If I maintain a 3.8 or above this year and senior year, will I have a chance at a school like NYU or USC? Maybe even UCLA?</p>
<p>As for the SATs, I'll be taking them for the first time in October and I've been preparing since this summer. Based on my practice tests, I expect a score around 1650. (This is my first time taking it, and I plan on improving a lot more before senior year starts.. hopefully in the 2000 range)</p>
<p>My extra curricular activities include: </p>
<p>-Violin (Youth orchestra since 9th grade, private lessons since 3rd grade, multiple performances including several recitals, festivals, and a recital at Carnegie Hall)
-President of Diversity Club in high school since 10th grade
-Tennis Club member since 10th
-Co-Editor of the school newspaper
-Key Club member since this year
-Volunteering at my local hospital</p>
<p>I might also join the student council as well!</p>
<p>And since I know affirmative action can be influential for admission, I'm Japanese and Bengali & both of my parents are well educated (dad is a medical doctor, mom is a medical lab tech) and our income is above $400k a year. I have been told I'm a strong writer too so I hope to use that as an advantage for college application essays.</p>
<p>Anyone want to chance me for NYU, USC, and UCLA?
Thanks!</p>