I applied ED but am grossly under-qualified, at least statistically. Writing-wise, though, I feel I’ve given myself a chance. You miss all the shots you don’t take.
Prospective program: B.A.S. in Computer and Cognitive Science
SAT: 2210 (770 Math, 730 CR, 710 Writing)
PSAT: 224 (80 Math, 74 CR, 70 Writing)
Weighted GPA: 3.3
Breakdown of GPA: freshman year, 3.7; sophomore year, 1.9; junior year, 4.0. The first two were spent at one of the most competitive STEM schools in the country.
Extracurriculars:
- Theatre.
- Job as research assistant with George Mason University.
- Membership in personal band as bassist and lyricist.
- Dungeon Master for D&D.
- Consistent interest in philosophy and literature, which I’ve expressed in my application.
Past APs:
- BC Calculus: 5
- BC Calculus AB Subscore Grade: 5
- Computer Science A: 5
- English Language and Composition: 5
Current APs: Literature, Physics 1, US Government, Comparative Government.
Awards: National Merit Semifinalist
Story: I started out my high school education mediocrely, and it only got worse from there, as I experienced depression. After I sought help (went to a hospital, got on medication, saw a therapist, etc.), my grades improved vastly, though not without first incurring me an expulsion from the country’s best high school.
Personal essay: English teacher described it as the best in his class. I go into detail about my theatre experience and explicitly address my past academic problems.