<p>Hello everyone, I am currently a freshman at the University of South Carolina (Honors) with high hopes of transferring into UVa (Arts & Science). I'm also a Virginia resident, so I will be applying as in-state. If it's to any relevance, I am a Korean American male. Legacy status: my dad graduated from UVa ('86) and donates about $1000 yearly (not really counting on this to get me in, but I hope it's at least a small niche).</p>
<p>Academics:</p>
<p>GPA: 3.5
Major: Biology (Pre-Med)
Minor: Japanese
Distinctions: Honors College, Dean's List</p>
<p>Courses:</p>
<p>-Fall Semester</p>
<p>Calculus I: C
Gen. Chemistry: A
Korean: A
University Studies: A</p>
<p>-Spring Semester</p>
<p>Calculus II
Gen. Chemistry
Gen. Biology
Gen. Biology (Lab)
Jazz Appreciation
Korean</p>
<p>Extracurricular:</p>
<p>Sunday School Teacher (5th Grade)
Pre-Med Community: Member
Free Medical Clinic: Volunteer
Association of Minority Pre-Health Students: Member
Tuesday Fellowship Campus: President
Residence Hall Association - Hall Government: Senator
Korean Community Presbyterian Church: Praise & Worship Team Member (Piano, Bass, Guitar, Vocals); Various Community Service Projects</p>
<p>High School:</p>
<p>GPA: 3.67 (Weighted)
Class Rank: 117/327
SAT: 1850 (M:620, VR:630, W:600)
Numerous EC's, but I figure they don't really matter</p>
<p>Here's my self-evaluation:</p>
<p>My chances are looking pretty slim. I am competing against Community College Transfers as well as Out-of-State Transfers. I would've had a 4.0 had I not messed up on my Calc. final, yes, my fault 100%. From the looks of my first semester, the coursework doesn't appear to be all that rigorous. As for my high school records...well as you can see, they weren't too stellar (putting aside EC's). </p>
<p>On a somewhat brighter note, I did transfer (within the school itself, not from anywhere else) into the Honors College at USC while making the Dean's List. I am very involved with various Pre-Med communities and the local Korean church. I maintain several leadership roles as well. On my application, I received two Letters of Recommendation - these professors also wrote for me when I applied to the Honors College. As for the statements/supplements, I feel very strongly about them (consulted with trusted reviewers) - don't let the W:600 fool you as that was two years ago. ;P</p>
<p>Sorry for such a lengthy post, but I'm eager to hear from an objective standpoint. I know that nothing will change and that I will have to wait patiently until May 1st just like everyone else. I already know my chances are slim, but what I really hope to get out of this thread is advice on how I can improve my chances for next year. Aside from the obvious (GPA, EC's etc.), what are some additional preparations that you guys would recommend? Don't go easy, be honest and straightforward - but don't hate either, haha.</p>