<p>Hi guys, I have some legitimate questions that have actually been bothering me. On the application it asks how many family members I have. Is that the amount of siblings I have in the same household or the siblings I have completely? Also, when I listed my classes for my senior year, should I list my semester grades or "not reported?" I would greatly appreciate it if someone could help me resolve these problems!</p>
<p>P.S. Do you think the essays weigh more in the decision process than, let's say, community service? I mean, I have very well rounded stats in everything just not as stellar as some people. My essays, to me, seem like they would definitely be more important and make me unique.</p>
<p>I am also an applicant this year, so I do not know how to answer the top half of your questions. </p>
<p>But as for the community service, I will admit, I don’t have as many hours as most past scholars…but they are pretty decent activities (Volunteered for festival, hospital, tutor etc.) (Also… some scholars told me they had over 400!!! WOW)
I do, however, have a few good leadership roles, but they aren’t like <strong>WOW</strong>. The Gates values quality over quantity, so it is senseless to list something like “Cleaned backyard for friend” and add over 100 hours to it just to make it look like you had a lot of hours. </p>
<p>SO to answer your question, I believe the Gates values the essays more than everything else. They won’t NOT look at it, I am just saying they look at the essays to see your character and story! And it helps that your essays are unique, they will be reading thousands of essays. Uniqueness will raise more interest. Hope this helps</p>
<p>Yeah I agree with you. I don’t have 400 hours, but I’ve been apart of some renowned organizations. I have technology groups, military groups, and volunteer groups all under my belt. Just not 400 hours. And I was able to fill out all the leadership roles. Legitimately! I remember reading something that said they are looking for “future leaders of America.” So I’m not sooo worried, although those people that travel to India to build houses would surely beat me. Lol. I hate that.</p>
<p>Anyway, thanks for the encouragement. I always take pride in my writing so I’m very confident to hear about this. If you need help maybe I can help too!</p>