<p>I was looking for some opinions on my stats for the schools I applied to and, also, to see if anyone had any useful info on financial aide options. Thanks all! =)</p>
<p>Applying to (Major): Cal (microbial biology); UCLA (MIMG); UCI (microbiology); UCSB (microbiology); UCR (biology)</p>
<p>UC GPA: 3.72</p>
<p>Prereqs: Life Sciences (all); Physical Sciences (all); Math (all); Physics (all)</p>
<p>IGETC: Yes</p>
<p>ECs: 1.5 years as laboratory technician in organic chemistry lab (private sector)
1 year as inorganic chemist in environmental laboratory (private sector)
1 year/400+ hrs as clinical volunteer at California State Public Health Laboratory</p>
<p>Essay: Probably not too bad, I got the thumbs up from a lot of english tutors and my bio professors. I wrote about how school has allowed me to begin establishing my career in the scientific industry, and how I have been able to use my skills to reach out to my community through volunteer work. </p>
<p>Other: (1) I have not been a full-time student, so it has taken a while for me to complete my prereqs. I don't know if they are going to count this against me.<br>
(2) I have been out of a job for 1.5 years, so I am considered a low-income, independent student; FAFSA EFC = 0<br>
(3) Minority student (if it matters)</p>