Reapplying to College

Applying to College
1

<p>This year, I'm currently planning to take a gap year to work as a software programmer (already have an offer) for a startup. However, the college I was accepted to, a large, top public university, doesn't allow deferred admission, meaning that I'm currently in the process of withdrawing and have to reapply in the fall.</p>

<p>Seeing as how I have to reapply anyway, I figured I could also reapply to several "reach" engineering schools that I did not get into (including Stanford and MIT, one of which I am a legacy at). </p>

<p>I've heard that schools discourage reapplying and that it is an "uphill climb" to get admitted.
-How much of a "negative" is it to adcoms if you were rejected once before?</p>

<p>My job is genuinely interesting and I get to contribute ideas to a real business. I also get the opportunity to develop applications that might be downloaded/used by thousands, if not hundreds of thousands to millions (the latter is very improbable).
-Do you think my gap year experiences will make much of a difference in my application?</p>

<p>Also, I plan on changing one of my previous essays to one about a very personal struggle of mine that I was initially too embarrassed/afraid to write about (the topic is not controversial, merely personal), which I later regretted since it truly expresses "me."
-Do college admissions keep records of previous essays on file such that they would recognize if I changed the essay?</p>

2

<p>Your situation is unusual. It’s your time and dollar. Go for it if it appeals to you… as long as already, you know the odds are awful. Best of luck to you</p>

3

<p>bump. 10char</p>

4

<p>I suppose there is a difference between taking a gap year just to reapply and taking one because it is truly your interest. I would expect admissions officers could tell the difference, and if the gap year added to the application or not.</p>

<p>Changing an essay would be realistic. You are a year older with more experience. </p>

<p>Would be curious if anyone has experience with this. This is just my speculation.</p>

5

<p>If you want your work experience to be meaningful, will you bypass the application process for Fall 2013 and apply for universities for fall 2014?</p>

6

<p>I will apply this year (December 2012) because I will have worked for slightly over four months by the time my application is submitted.</p>

7

<p>There are several threads on gap year activities and results in the Parents Forum. Pop over there and scroll down for ideas.</p>