<p>I am a senior in high school recently accepted to Duke University. Although Duke is a great university, I am much more interested in doing financial engineering at Columbia's SEAS. I intend to apply as a transfer applicant. What should I do between now and next March to increase my chance of admission?</p>
<p>SAT: 750 M, 720 V, 780 W
SAT II: 790 M2, 790 Bio, 800 WH, intend on taking Chem or Physics
Rank: 10/1433, mostly As.
HS transcript: heavy on languages (Germ, Fr, Span all at AP), great in math, okay in physics, good chemistry and biology grades
EC: wrote an unpublished 104K wd novel about boy during Haitian earthquake (seeking agent), designed program that teaches students French, co-founded enrichment program for small children, World Affairs essay finalist (dallas metroplex), Hist Fair first place regional finalist (paper published), Amnesty Vice President, International Club President</p>
<p>As you can tell, I was very much interested in world affairs since I wanted to be a diplomat. My interest in financial engineering came when I enrolled in economics, statistics, and computer science this year and decided I wanted a major that involved all of them. Apart from taking science/math classes at Duke first semester, what else should I do to increase chances of admission? I am most interested in responses from those who were actually accepted. Any advice for the essay?</p>