Hello CC,
I live in Illinois and was just wondering how competitive the UIUC computer science is as although the acceptance rates of UIUC aren’t anything special I have heard the engineering and comp sci fields are extremely competitive and was wondering what I should do to gain an edge when applying. Thanks!
Stats?
Sophomore:
GPA: UW: 3.85
W: 4.3
Haven’t taken SAT or ACT.
Courseload: only thing really big so far is a solid A in AP Computer science A and all As in math and honors English.
Courseload for junior: AP physics 1 , mobile apps, Trig/Calc A, AP Lang, AP Physcology, Dual credit Spanish 4
I have had a job since 7th grade and will be looking for an internship in the summer at a software company my dad has connections with. I can get several letters of recommendation as I have a great bond with my computer science teacher who is also my coach for volleyball. Started on jv freshman year, not sure what this season will bring.
I’m not a UIUC expert. Others will chime in, but I believe they are very stats-focused. Your ECs are great, and may provide you more of a advantage at other schools. The most important thing for you to do is kick butt on SAT or ACT. Look for other schools you can afford and enjoy, just in case. You may have several other that are comparable in cost to UIUC. Good luck.
@not2much Thanks!! I’ll be taking the PSAT soon. I forgot to mention I play 2 instruments in my free time but had to drop orchestra to fit all my classes in 
UIUC CS is very competitive, especially out of state. In state, it is probably easier, but I did have a friend who is very good with CS but got waitlisted. I would say get your GPA to above a 3.9 (but it is decent right now) and get a good SAT/ACT score and you should be good. Also do more EC.
@idkName thanks for the advice I will make sure to prep well for the SAT/ACT.