<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>I just finished my freshman year at SUNY Binghamton, and I'm somewhat interested in transferring for my junior year. I'm considering some LACs such as Swarthmore and Vassar, and also some medium-sized schools such as Brown. Basically, I'm not miserable at Binghamton, but far from thrilled with the school, and so I'd really only consider applying to schools that will most likely reject me (a school that would be a big "step up" if accepted).</p>
<p>My freshman year GPA was a 3.915. My high school average was a 92/100, and my SAT was a 1440 (790v, 650m). I know that course selection is vital, and I'm afraid that I made a mistake by not taking the most challenging possible courseload for my proposed major. Instead, I spent this year satisfying all of the General Education requirements. I'd most likely be a philosophy major if transferring. I took an intro philosophy course this past semester, and I'm taking three 300-level philosophy courses next semester.</p>
<p>What I'm really concerned about is the "X-Factor" that would set me apart from other applicants. I don't have a laundry list of ECs and awards, but instead have a demonstrated passion for music. I've been playing the drums for over 10 years, and have performed in many different bands, jazz band, pit bands, a selective college masterclass, won musician of the year during senior year, co-ran a recording studio, gave lessons...</p>
<p>I'm afraid though, that I haven't done enough music-related activities during college, let alone "tangible" activities like holding a position for something. My glory days were really in high school. I tried out for the jazz band first semester, but had a lousy audition and didn't make the cut. This summer, I won't be curing cancer, but will be working in a store and taking math classes at our community college.</p>
<p>Do you think if I try and join the jazz band and percussion ensemble next semester and maintain a similair GPA, I can have a realistic (as in "you are not completely out of your mind for applying") shot at some of the aforementioned schools? Can anyone think of any other schools that I might consider? </p>
<p>I'm looking for a solid philosophy department, active music scene (I turned down Oberlin (the college, not the conservatory) because I didn't really want to take a plane), that is within 5 hours of Long Island.</p>
<p>Thank you everybody in advance for your help!! I can't believe the application process will most likely be soon starting again for me!!</p>