Poor Grades, But Swat's My Dream School

Colleges and Universities A-Z Swarthmore College
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<p>Heeey. I'm a junior in a PA high school, and I had the chance to look at Swarthmore a while ago. Even just knowing about it, it became my dream school because I have a lot of interest in writing and poli sci. I'm looking for a good writing/polic sci school, and I love Swat.</p>

<p>But my grades aren't so hot. My sophomore year wasn't too good, maybe 30th in a class of 100 (yes, I know, sad) but this year I am doing much, much better. I don't know what my GPA is, but I probably have a 90% plus percentage average in my classes and am getting an A in almost all of them. It's hard for me to tell my exact ranking because it's only halfway through the semester, but I'm doing well, top twenty hopefully. I do know I'm second in my APUSH class and am getting over a weighted 100% (note that this is the only AP class offered Junior year at my school, and I'm one of only 7 in the class). Other grades are kinda meh, good in advanced physics and honors english and probably a high B in integrated math 4. Most likely mid-low As or high Bs. Comp graphics are probably another A, as well as phys ed. I'll also get good grades in modern dilemmas and creative writing second semester (virtually guarenteed).</p>

<p>Extracurriculars aren't my strong suit. I'm going to volunteer full work hours during the weekend at the CSC this year, and at the animal shelter after school when it's completed. I also take a special screenwriting program at the allegheny intermediate unit, and have been published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette but didn't maintain the position ( I can probably pick that back up right away, if need be ). I was selected to go to the National Youth Leadership Conference on Technology in Silicon Valley but most likely can't go do to a lack of funds. Other than that, I'm a member of the improv club, and write for the newspaper and the literary magazine. I also write for the ezine of a forum with 8,000 members, but I don't think that really counts.</p>

<p>If I can do as well as I did on the PSATs as last year, I'm also probably going to be a National Merit Scholar. I still have to figure out whether I'm going to get into NHS- there was a cheating incident in Freshman year which I really regret. It was on a minor quiz and that was the last time I cheated, ever- I don't think it was reported. It was an incredibly stupid mistake that I'll never repeat.</p>

<p>Do I have a chance at Swarthmore? At all?</p>

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<p>Possibly? It is hard to tell. I didn't have the greatest grades - I think I was somewhere in the bottom of the second decile of my class as of the end of junior year, and I was accepted - but the school you are coming from matters. Essays and recomendations are also essential.</p>

<p>So do you have a chance? Possibly. It really depends on a ton of factors you don't mention in your post, imo.</p>

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<p>Truthfullly, from what you have disclosed, your chances are not good. That is not to say that you couldn't succeed at Swarthmore. It's just that the school is going to be looking at too many applicants that will be stronger on paper than you. Unless you have a big hook you haven't mentioned, I believe you are looking at an uphill climb that is likely to be too steep. My advice is that you broaden your horizons. Dream school schcleam school. If you do some serious looking you will be able to find a slew of outstanding colleges that are strong in both writing and polic sci that will be thrilled to have you. Good luck.</p>

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<p>Although I believe gladdad is correct, I think you should still at least apply and see how well you do. If it's your dream school, and if funds permit, why not apply early decision? The ED system is for students who know a school is their first choice and want to let the school know. A Swat alum told me her school takes great pride in diversity, while you may not look so hot on paper, there may be other factors that will tip the scale for you.</p>