<p>Hello,
I am currently a high school senior, and I will be attending UMD, College Park next year. I wanted to go to Cornell (mostly because it's a great vet school, and I wanted to be there for undergrad for connections to get into vet school), but got rejected. I may try to transfer as a sophomore into CALS for biology. At UMD, I am going to be in Letters and Sciences (undecided), not biology, but will still be taking the coursework required for the biology major. I'm not sure if that will be a problem. (I applied to biology, but got rejected because it is a limited enrollment program). Will I be able to get my degree in the same number of years as if I didn't transfer? Also, how difficult is it to transfer? Are admissions still ultra competitive, like they were for freshman admission? Also, how much do they look at SAT scores? If I do well in at UMD (like A's and B's), do you think I could get in? Also, what do you recommend I start doing now to prepare? What kinds of experiences should I get myself into so that I look better for admissions? Also, will they be able to see that I applied for freshman admission and was rejected? If so, will this have an impact on my transfer decision?</p>
<p>I want to eventually go to medical or veterinary school, if that helps with what you think would be best for me to do.</p>
<p>If you do well at UMD, you are not going to have trouble getting into the Med school or Vet school of your choice. Also, your profs at Md will have connections at the top post grad schools in the country – you don’t need connections at, for example, Cornell to get into Cornell vet school – a sterling recommendation and record of achievement at UMd is every bit as highly valued. You have gotten in to one of the most respected programs in the country (L & S), and every grad and medical school recognizes that. Congratulations!</p>
<p>^Thanks mensa. That makes me feel better about my Cornell rejection :)</p>
<p>Hey If you transfer as I do (for fall 2013), no SAT score is required, but SAT II is important and the ones you take should closely relate to your interest. I suppose thats Bio, Chem and Math for u.</p>
<p>The foremost crucial element is “Why Cornell” essay? That’s a key for me when I apply. What doesn’t UMD offer that Cornell does. If you can’t answer for yourself I’m afraid you’ll have an uphill battle. </p>
<p>Get straight A and take a variety of classes. (As in something outside of your comfort zone, not PE haha). I’m a social science major but dragged myself to French, Calculus 2 and Biology classes too.</p>
<p>I also did a bunch of extracurriculars (president or VP) and get the professors at my previous school to be involved with them to ensure they would give me a great rec. If u do research with them, that’s even better. Also lead your community/churches/ect… whatever you are in. The key is to have a very well thought out Activity List to show case your leadership in your field as well as social gatherings.</p>
<p>Best of luck, feel free to ask me anything</p>