I attend a STEM magnet high school which offers PLTW courses including Biomedical Science and Engineering. I am in the biomedical program and I was wondering if the courses I take could increase the chances of me getting into top schools such as UCLA or NYU.
I’m also planning to take AP Bio, AP Chem and AP physics later on. I’ve also taken Bio and Chem honors. I understand there is more to the college app than courses, GPA, SAT, ECs, essays, etc., but I want to major in biology. Could these courses possibly help me.
Your first priority should be your core classes, like those described here: http://talk.qa.collegeconfidential.com/high-school-life/2055289-faq-high-school-college-prep-base-curriculum.html
Then, for electives, PLTW are great options. It lets you explore engineering and Biomedical sciences. You can often get some college credit as well.
BTW, if you have taken Bio, Chem, and Physics, you don’t have to take the AP versions of all 3 of those.
Keep in mind that NYU is a very expensive Private school that doesn’t give much merit scholarships. UCLA is expensive for out of state students. SO make sure you run the Net Price Calculator for both of these schools you make sure they are affordable.
For the magnet program that I’m in, PLTW Biomedical Sciences is my “major”. They aren’t considered electives classes.