Should I even apply to the University of Washington (Seattle)? Chance me for DA for CS please!

Hello everyone! So I’m a senior in HS that wants to major in computer science, and I have (of course) been looking at UW-Seattle. However, I haven’t applied yet (I know, bad idea, considering that the deadline is literally tomorrow), and I’m not sure if I should.

I’ve read that the culture there is very competitive, and although I know that it’s nearly impossible to get DA for comp sci, I don’t think I’d like to go there and have to struggle for two years to get into my major (like how I would if I don’t get DA). However, I don’t have many safeties/matches that I’d actually like to go to, and UW seems pretty cool. Would you guys mind chancing me for DA there?

I’m an Indian female, and I took AP Comp Sci last year and got a four on the exam. I am currently taking a Data Structures class at a local university, and will be taking the next one next semester. I volunteer at Girls Who Code, and will begin volunteering at a similar club later this year. I volunteer a lot and am on the executive board for two volunteering clubs at my school. Also, I run stuff at the local library and have done 2 book drives for a local organization. I’d like to continue volunteering in college, especially through organizations related to CS obviously, children’s education and social justice. I’m taking a Gender Studies class next semester, so I hope that the fact that I want to use my major to help others is reflected somewhat well in my application, as I want to discuss that in the diversity supplement. Also, I’m not sure if it’ll impact my chances or anything, but I’m a lesbian.

Last year, I did a computer science related mentorship, and I think I’ve taken a fair amount of STEM classes in high school (2 basic engineering classes that weren’t CS related, 5 science classes, 5 math classes, and 2 computer science classes). My GPA is a 3.9, and my ACT score is a 34 (I got that score twice, the second time I took it and got a 34 I ended up getting 36s in math and english, and a 35 in reading, but I completely bombed the science section and got a 29, so I’ll probably end up submitting the first 34, where I didn’t get any perfect scores and got a 35 in english). I am also a National Merit Commended Scholar.

My rec letters are pretty…generic so I’ll have to make sure my essays are really well written

I think that’s everything, please let me know if any of you need any more info about me! Thank you so, so much!!!

From https://www.cs.washington.edu/academics/ugrad/admissions/direct

“CSE DA is designed primarily for Washington State resident students. Although a small number of non-Washington residents may receive offers, there is a very strong preference for Washington students.”

If you are not a Washington resident your energy might be better spent by substituting a different school.

Wow, I didn’t know that- I should probably looked at their website more closely. Thank you!!!

… and UW doesn’t take any teacher recommendations. Not even your transcript or counselor letter. Just your scores and essays.

I know