<p>Hey, I'm a sophomore at a decent public school in IL. It's good enough where we could send a kid to a school like Middlebury, but bad enough where few would realize how impressive that is. I was curious as to my chances at top schools (Universities or Lib. Arts Colleges). Also, I'm a pale male from a middle-class family. Here are the numbers:
ACT: (December 2010) 30C, 32E, 30M, 31R, 28S
I have not taken the SAT, but in most math practice tests I get 690ish.
GPA: 4.083 UW, 4.41 W; Rank: 4/275
Extra Curricular: Class President, Student Council, Student Advisory Forum, Environmental Studies Club, Baseball, Soccer, Scholastic Bowl, Young Democrats of America, Math Team, Conference Literary Festival Participant, Pep Club (co-founder), Young Republicans of America (co-founder).</p>
<p>So what do you say? Anything I should work on? Besides Hell, any ramifications for lack of community service? Nosh on this shiz for a while, and please comment.</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>I wouldn’t bet on getting into the Ivies or any extremely top-tier prestigous schools, but you would definitely be a great applicant to other competitive schools. Your ACT scores aren’t bad, but I would try to bump your SAT math into the 700s if possible. Also a lot of schools look for community service beause they want to see their kids involved and giving back. For the best impact, pick something close to your intended area of study (math tutoring? helping out a little league team?). It will look better and you will probably enjoy it more.
Nice job and best of luck with your applications.</p>
<p>You’re in Young Democrats and Young Republicans?</p>
<p>How do you have an UW of 4.08?</p>
<p>Thanks to all who responded.</p>
<p>@bluespiano, yes. I was disgruntled over how small our YDA club was, so I decided to try making a YRA. I figure the two can work together.</p>
<p>@Stevenf, my school gives 4.25 for an A+.</p>
<p>I’m not American so maybe I’m wrong about this but I thought you could only be a Democrat or a Republican as their views are in direct contrast to each other on a lot of issues. I’m not up on my American politics though so I may be wrong. :)</p>
<p>You can be moderate… I started YRA as I detest political oblivion more than I do the opposite party. Intellectuals arguing against me are better than fools on my side.</p>
<p>Fair enough. It could make an interesting application essay. It shows more maturity and intelligence than most people possess. :)</p>
<p>It shows maturity, intelligence, and schizophrenia.</p>
<p>I believe you have potential to get in the high 2000s - a 2300 even. You have room to grow and improve intellectually in two years. From personal experience, my sophomore test scores are no where near my junior and senior grades. I’m sure you’ll be able to get into ives, just don’t rush. Take two SATs during junior year and one during early senior year, you’ll see an improvement if you really study. Good luck!</p>
<p>whotheman, we all know the answer. You are. Thanks for the encouragement, brother.</p>