Cornell is my dream school because of its ornithology and entomology programs (I’m really interested in birds and insects) but I’m not sure what chance I have of getting in. My GPA and SAT are good but my AP scores are lousy. I’ve been struggling with depression on and off throughout high school. Would it be best to apply, which would mean continued anxiety, or set my sights on easier schools?
If you don’t apply, you’ll wonder “what if…” for the rest of your life. Apply, but set your expectations low, and if you get in, it would be a nice surprise.
You do not have to submit your AP scores, nor do they really care about them. They only care about the grades that you are getting. AP scores are only important for placement and exemptions, if you are accepted.
If you like Cornell because of those programs, you should also check out SUNY ESF.
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Entomology is in CALS which may still be test blind this year (it was last year). So your GPA and class rigor and ECs will be really important. CALS is really big on fit so if you apply make sure it’s very clear why you and CALS are meant for each other. Good luck!
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Yes, CALS is Score Free.
I think you need to lose the “dream school” mentality, which is hard. My advice is to find a school where admission is more likely and that has a program you like and apply EA. Go ahead and apply to Cornell, too, but with an early acceptance to a program you can see yourself enjoying, the anxiety to get into the “dream school” is less. Who knows - maybe you end up being ecstatic enough to turn down Cornell. It happens!
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Agree. Check out University of Wyoming with rolling admissions. Here is link to professor’s ornithology website
http://www.uwyo.edu/benkman/
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I agree.
Also, imo, Cornell is not a great place for somebody in the middle of struggling with depression. If you were one of the collegekids we would be urging you to think long and hard- and talk to your health care professional- before walking that path.
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