<p>I am currently a rising senior, trying to compile the list of schools I will be applying to. I have yet to find a major that I am completely satisfied with (I have strongly considered international affairs and public health) so I have switched my focus to finding a school with great study abroad and internship opportunities. Any recommendations would be appreciated. </p>
<p>My GPA is (unweighted) 3.9 on a 4.0 scale, taking all honors and AP classes. I got 5's on the three AP classes I have taken sophomore and junior year, and will be taking another four APs senior year. My SAT composite score is 2240 (750 critical reading, 770 math, and 720 writing) and my ACT composite is 35 (34 science, 35 reading, 34 math, 35 writing). My SAT subject tests are a little low, 750 in biology and 740 in math 2.</p>
<p>Something to keep in mind, I am hoping to receive merit scholarship as cost is a large consideration, so please try to keep the schools more target as opposed to reach. Thanks!</p>
<p>Many schools have great study abroad and internship programs. Do you have any preference as to region of the country and/or size of school? Also, do you qualify for need-based aid? Many schools do not give merit scholarships, but do award financial aid based on your family’s income & assets.</p>
<p>A little more information on your preferences & situation will help other posters give you good suggestions.</p>
<p>You seem to have very good chances to get scholarships in those colleges. Most top universities and colleges will give good financial aid but little merit scholarships.</p>
<p>Also if you are thinking about LACs then take a look at whether Kalamazoo in Michigan is a fit. I think 80% or more of their students study abroad at least once.</p>
<p>Often a school with really good SA options is going to be a really good school, too. If you’re going to prioritize according to SA program, check to see if the college charges you tuition while you are overseas paying some company for the credits you earn overseas and the board expenses overseas. Each college is going to be somewhat different, but it is possible to choose better and/or less expensive study abroad programs. Be aware however that often the courses taken overseas are going to be more useful to your gen ed and gen ed elective requirements than your major requirements. If you wait til junior year you may have already completed most of those gen ed requirements and gen ed electives. You might want to make study abroad your top priority for extra-major education; that is, the study abroad activity could pre-empt other options you might consider like having a minor or double-majoring or doing an interdisciplinary major of your own making.</p>