Suggestions for One Ambitious Soph

[arwarw]

@1LuckyBrave‌ you asked

why would you recommend me not to put awards like National Phy. and Med Scientists or HOBY on my application?

and they gave you their honest opinion.

From the NY Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/19/education/edlife/leadership-t.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0

a leadership conference is no more or less likely to enhance college applications than, say, soccer camp. “It doesn’t fall into the same category as being selected by your county where there was truly some type of assessment and selection process,” he says. “That becomes a true honor.” By way of example, he cites appointment as a Senate page. “Honors typically don’t come with a price tag,” he says.
That is a sentiment echoed among college admissions officers, who say they do not place much stock in participation in such summits.

Susan Garrity Ardizzoni, director of undergraduate admissions at Tufts, says students whom she would hardly consider leadership material have received the invitations. In recent years, she has seen more applications from students citing attendance at these workshops as an achievement.

I think you’ve gotten solid advice here, but if you’re seeking encouragement and affirmation, you might try posting here: http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/