My DD is a potential NMF in California. She is a typical high stats kid with slightly above average EC and job experience. USC is her first choice, but only if she gets a scholarship since we will not be able to get any need base aid. I’ve heard that it is much more difficult for NMF to get into USC then the rest of the applicant pool. I’ve also heard that you have to show “love” to USC so they will know that they are her first choice. We visited USC this year and she absolutely loves it. She also attended selective summer program at USC. What else she should do so they will know that they are her first choice?
“I’ve heard that it is much more difficult for NMF to get into USC then the rest of the applicant pool.”
WRONG.
USC accepts a HIGHER % of NMF’s than non NMF’s.
That comes directly from the Dean of Admissions.
"What else she should do so they will know that they are her first choice? "
She needs to dig deep into USC’s website and research specific programs, professors, or other aspects of USC. And refer to them in her essay as among the reasons she wants to go there [ besides the NMF $]
Have her send in the NMSF form that shows the USC is her first choice early.
She can always change her first choice pick to another school later if she is not accepted at USC.
The chosen major will be important. My D is in drama and was interviewed by phone by the drama dept. I think her the enthusiasm she expressed in that interview went a long way. Also, many of the NMFs are awarded an additional University scholarship of about $4000-$5000 a year.
This is an interesting point @vistajay During the campus admission presentation, they said that they do not recommend people to schedule optional interviews, since majority of students do not have any interviewing experience and do not interview well in general. We are locals, so attending interview will not be a problem, just not sure if this is a good idea, since DD never had interviews before.
then have her rehearse with someone who has experience with this.
Are you using a private college counselor?
That is a service they can often provide- better than a “mom” or “dad”.