<p>Does anyone know how much ECs have to do with Vanderbilt decisions? I got kinda worried when there was no essay to write for the supplement. My grades are okay (4.54gpa and a 2050 SAT) but I know they're below Vanderbilt's averages. The thing I think has helped me with other schools has been my ECs. I've done things like hold my own blood drive, I'm the lead prosecutor for Teen Court in my county, Appalachia Service Project, Habitat for Humanity, NHS, 300+ hours of volunteer peer tutoring, and volunteering at the zoo for 2 summers. For other colleges I had the opportunity to write about these things in my essay, but Vanderbilt won't really get an explanation for any of that. Anyone have any thoughts on whether or not it will affect my admission?</p>
<p>Contact your admissions officer, give him/her a hearty hello, and give them the supplemental essay.</p>
<p>I did that. Went very well. Go.</p>
<p>Thank you so much, I will definitely do that! That’s a great idea.</p>
<p>Extracurriculars are huge at Vandy. They are looking for students who are movers and shakers like you obviously are. From what my son has told me about his classmates, you would be a great fit there. One of his friends has similar community service and got a full ride scholarship because of it. </p>
<p>Definitely get to know your admissions counselor and let him/her know that Vandy is your #1 school. Try to meet him/her in person and if you have the opportunity for an alumni interview make sure you take advantage of it. How about sending in a resume? You don’t want to be a pest, but you do want to make sure they know that you are a difference-maker in the world.</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>
<p>ncbug19,
I agree with Philvitist, but I would go a step further. Do some research on volunteer activities at Vanderbilt and discuss how you would take your past experiences and use them to build a place in the strong community service culture at Vandy. Connect the dots!</p>
<p>Thanks so much for your help! I would love to be accepted…I’m just not holding my breath. I will write them a letter though and ask them to add it to my file.</p>