Hi!
So I’m really concerned about where I can get into college; here is a basic outline of who I am.
Senior in a large city in the South
Attending a small private school ranked in the top 40 in the US
Hispanic female, fluent in Spanish, intermediate Chinese
Current unweighted GPA 88.64 out of 100 (considered Honors at my school; family circumstances have factored some in my GPA… not an excuse, just some explanation provided in additional information section of my apps)
ACT composite 35 (section superscores; 35 English; 35 Math; 35 Reading; 36 Science)
Interested in a double major in mechanical engineering and astrophysics, possible minor in philosophy
Junior year courses: Chinese III, Honors Physics, US History, Independent Study, AP English, Advanced Precalculus, Astronomy
Senior year courses: Honors Physics II, History of Art, Independent Study, Honors English IV, AP Calculus AB, Computer Hardware and Networking, Intro to Java Programming
For the last three years, I have been working on my independent study project, which involves reading scientific publications on methods for the detection and identification of dark matter. As part of this project, I have been able to communicate with professors and researchers. I just started a position as a research assistant in the physics and astronomy department of a highly accredited university in my city.
For the last two summers, I was an intern in the president’s laboratory at one of the nations largest cancer hospitals. The experiment I worked on explored the relationship between telomerase, aging, and cancer in the small intestines of mice. I reported directly to the president, and the president has written a letter of recommendation for me.
My leadership positions at school include: President of Computer Programming Club, President of Philosophy Club, President of Math and Science Club, President of Astronomy Club, President of Hispanic Student Association.
In addition, I have experience in the following: 100+ Hours in technical and performance theater, Math Competition Club, Model UN, Quiz Bowl, national engineering competitions, and taking varsity baseball statistics.
My awards and certificates include: national philosophy competition awards for applied ethics case study, academic honor roll, and National Science and Technology Leadership Award (presented to me by former astronaut Buzz Aldrin).
I’ve already submitted about half of my applications, but I’m still open to any advice on improving my chances, and I’m anxiously anticipating decisions from the schools to which I’ve already submitted applications.
If I’m missing any details, please let me know. Otherwise, here are some of the schools I’m applying to and would really love to attend:
Caltech, MIT, Cal Poly, Berkeley, USC, Duke, Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Northeastern, Rice, Stanford, Harvey Mudd, Penn, University of Toronto, McGill, RPI, RIT, Stevens
What are my chances?? Any feedback/advice?
Thanks!
