I’m a sophomore and I’m most probably gonna apply to Wharton ED. I heard the acceptance rate was around 10% so how can I distinguish myself from other applicants. I’m in two business related clubs in which eventually I will hold a leadership role. I will be the captain of a sports team for the next two years. Next year I will join NHS and I also do science talent research. I have 150 hours of community service at the YMCA. By senior year I will have taken 10 APS. So in terms of extracurriculars, are mine sufficient and good for a school like Wharton. And for test scores, what should I aim for on the SAT and ACT with the SAT being out of 1600?
While Penn doesn’t give specific school acceptance rates, its pretty much assumed that the Wharton acceptance rate is lower than 10% … I only mention that so you understand that Wharton is a stretch for anyone and IMO (from reading about and meeting admitted students this year) they are looking for more than top students with average leadership roles. Most of the students I met were movers and shakers in their communities with a particular passion for something that they took to the next level…
Many had start up companies, created video games, raised substantial $$ for a pet project, or had leadership or research or competition on a national level in their field of interest… I have read that admissions wants to know not only what you have done, but why you have done what you do, i.e. they want to see a cohesive picture of drive and leadership and what matters to you and what you will bring to Wharton.
So, I would say that while your leadership roles are great, now take them to the next level and intertwine them with what matters to you. Say- have your business clubs create a fundraiser to bring awareness and funding to xxx in your community or You say you volunteer at the YMCA- how about creating a new program for the YMCA- say financial skills seminars or business entrepreneurship seminars (I bet you could get local business leaders to donate their time) or organize your sports teams to hold tournaments to raise $ for the YMCA … you mention that you are going to do science talent research- think about how that intersects with your passions, business goals and aspirations and combine it- Perhaps create a local business funded science talent competition or something…
anyway just my thoughts on what you could do to distinguish yourself from other applicants… also never underestimate the power of a good essay! For the new SAT scores, its hard to say- as this years admits took the old SAT. next year will give you a better idea but imo GPA is more important- keep your GPA up! Good luck!
thanks this was helpful