So basically, I’ve been told (not just on this forum, but by friends and teachers irl) I should reach for higher schools despite a low GPA. I thought I had a set college list, and was pretty keen on applying to Boston University early decision, but it’s been nagging at me for a while too actually. I’ve begun to consider Vassar again, I visited with one of my close friends when she was touring there and LOVED it - but I’ve always considered too reachy.
My stats are 3.5 All Subject GPA, 4.2 Academic GPA, and a 35 ACT + 1570 SAT and a handful of ECs I have some decent recognition plus a commitment to. I’ll likely qualify somehow for National Merit (1500 on PSAT).
I’m fine with schools most sizes, I can do small LAC to huge university (I’m p adaptable) as long there are strong English/International Relations and/or strong Journalism programs. I’d also like the ability of double majoring. I’m pretty political and very left leaning, so I’d like a socially left campus. (idc about fiscal conservatives, I’m a gay mixed race Jew I really can’t Deal with bigots.) Cost isn’t too much of a factor, and location doesn’t really matter as long as it’s not terribly rural (ie Oberlin would be perfect except I don’t like the location). Drinking/party scene isn’t a factor - again I’m pretty adaptable to whatever. I’m not a particular fan of Greek Life, but it’s not a deal breaker is this school is left leaning and has good programs.
My current college list is: Boston University, probably Vassar College (still debating about reachiness), Syrcause University, Occidental College, Fordham University, American University, George Washington Universty, UW-Madison. UM-Twin Cities, Mount Holyoke College, and Agnes Scott College.
http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1988543-are-these-schools-realistic-low-gpa-high-test-scores-and-ok-ecs-p1.html - Here is my chance thread for more background info on ECs and stuff like that.
Should I still go ED for Boston? What colleges could I add to my list?