<p>Hi I'm an African-American senior in the process of applying to colleges. I've already submitted my application to Stanford for regular decision, so it will be a while until I hear back, but I just want other people's opinions on my chances.</p>
<p>I grew up having to take care of a mother who was an alcoholic and also a drug addict. Until I was about 8, I was moving every year and changing schools every year as well. My father took my mother to court to try and win custody over me. He won, and so I moved with him at the start of 2nd grade. When I turned 15, my mother passed away. This was a hard time for me and I never really received much emotional support from anyone. As soon as I was able to, my father made me get a job so that I could support myself. Since I turned 15, I have supplied myself with clothes, school supplies, transportation, and any other thing you could think of besides a house. Although my dad provided me with a place to live, it was very apparent that he didn't like helping me, or like me living with him in general. As soon as I turned 18, he kicked me and my twin sister out of the house. I now live with my sisters friend, and independently support myself fully.</p>
<p>Since I was working all the time, and didn't have the financial ability for much, it was hard to get involved at school. I played football my sophomore year, and became a part of student council my senior year. Another thing I did was join a group called link crew, which is a group of upperclassmen who get together and try to make the freshman's entrance into high school a better experience. </p>
<p>Through my hardships I have always seen college as a way out. I learned at an early age that if I wanted to get out of my situation, I would have to work hard at school. I have maintained my gpa of a 3.55 while taking a rigorous course load. I have taken as many AP and IB classes. 6 or 7 in total. I also go to the number one public school in my state, so the curriculum is very rigorous. I also scored a composite score of 30 on my ACT. I know that these scores are at the minimum average of any high end school at best, but I feel like I could have done better if I wasn't in the situation I was in. I know how selective Stanford is but I feel that I have the drive and ambition to succeed at almost any school. I will include my common app general essay as well, so that you can get a better feel of who I am. Any response would be appreciated. Thanks!</p>