I do want to go there, but it seems like a huge waste of time and money to me, but what do you guys think?
GPA: 3.53
ACT: 35
Extracurriculars: Band, Debate, FBLA, Science Olympiad, Beta Club, Track
I’m drum major in band and have received various awards for it, including best overall drum major at Nationals. I also made all-state band. I’ve placed in some regional competitions in Debate and Olympiad. I went to state for FBLA. I have a lot of service hours, so I’m good with that. Didn’t do much with track. I’m also a minority who would need financial aid, if that changes anything,
My ACT score was great, but my GPA was lacking, I do feel like I could have done better with my clubs too. Would UPenn be a waste of time?
GPA is low, however what is your class ranking? Your ACT us stellar… But the GPA is lacking. Apply; you have nothing to lose.
I’m in the top 10%. My rank is 40 out of 483
While it is your freedom apply to Upenn, the discrepancy between your GPA and SAT may be even more hurtful than low GPA itself. Do you have reasons for really low GPA? What about your courseworks?
Is the olympiad national/international level?
You probably won’t get in. Your GPA and extracurriculars are no where near UPenn’s expectations.
The reason my GPA is so low is honestly because of my laziness. I was so busy with clubs especially sophomore year, that I focused on doing well in difficult classes while just ignoring the easy ones. That’s why i got over 100 in some of my APs yet I get Bs in easy classes like Spanish or even health. Most of my Bs are borderline though. Olympiad is national.
Need MUCH more info! What do you want to study? Which college are you applying to? Where are you from (geographically)? You say you’re a minority - more specific please! Can you answer the WHY Penn question?. How was rigor at your high school? APs / IB? Did you take subject tests? There are so many factors that go into admissions decisions. Also, if Penn is seriously your #1 - consider ED. They (and other schools like Penn) fill nearly 50% of their class ED. So it gives you your best shot. Good luck.
I think that your ACT scores make up for a slightly slow GPA, but unless you are spectacular in your ECs and/or have leadership positions in them, your chances are very average. But you are very well rounded which colleges like. Good luck!
Did you…did you read the original post?
Maybe y’all aren’t familiar with marching band, but this is pretty dang amazing.
Sorry, but I’m not familiar with marching band. I hope I didn’t offend you with my comment 
Oh no, I just thought it was a bit silly! 
Given that the original post established both leadership and fairly spectacular ECs.