Hello,
I am currently an international student (Australia) studying in California. I’ve been lurking on CC for quite a while now, familiarized myself with the college application process, but I realized I need help in picking safety schools.
I am looking to major in CS or Business. My only college criteria is that it is in/close to a city. No financial aid needed (I don’t think I qualify for it anyway).
Here are my stats:
4.76 GPA Weighted (out of 5 - took AP classes - UW score should be close to a 4)
33 ACT (low writing score - will retake)
2140 old SAT (will not retake)
SAT Math II: 710 (will retake)
SAT Bio M: 760
SAT US History: 740 (took same time as Math II 710; might cancel score)
AP: Calculus BC (5), Language and Composition (5), US History (5), Biology (4), Calculus AB (4), Psychology (4)
Senior Year Courses: AP Physics C: Mechanics, AP Statistics, AP US Government & Politics, AP Literature and Composition, Mandarin III (H), AP Computer Science
EC: I’m an international competitor and nationally ranked (peaked at 3rd) in a sport (which, unfortunately, is not varsity or one that colleges usually recruit for). Won Student of the Year awards in various subjects. Participated in many clubs, did not hold leadership position in anything though due to athletic commitments. Work experience as an intern at an accounting firm and performer/choreographer at a show. Volunteered as a tutor.
For now, I’ve only planned to apply to most (if not all) the UC schools. But I’ve heard that getting admitted into the UC system is getting tough, so I might need some safeties. As mentioned above, I am fine with any college campus/student body size, and location, as long as the campus is located in or relatively close to a city (~hour commute). I was thinking to apply to NYU and Carnegie Mellon, but I’m not sure if I can make it. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!