What are my chances of getting in?

Applying to College
1

<p>I'm applying to the following schools: Oberlin, Reed, Amherst, Bard, and Swarthmore.</p>

<p>I come from an underfunded school in the rural south, so my transcript isn't as impressive as it should be but I've taken as many advanced and honors classes as possible.</p>

<p>My GPA: 3.9 unweighted
ACT: Eng- 36 Reading- 27 Science- 25 Math- 24
Extracurriculars: Congressional Academy for American History & Civics, founder of Cheese Club, participated in a documentary about the Battle of Gettysburg, Art Club, NHS, Beta, Swimming, church youth group, Deliver presents/food to children infected or affected by HIV/AIDs, help out with food drive, donor/volunteer for blood drive, HOSA, full time summer job. </p>

<p>I think my strength will be in my personal essays since my life has been relatively tragic. I know I'm trivializing it now but I think the insight I've gained through experience will increase my chances. </p>

<p>What do you think?</p>

2

<p>I think you should be very careful about focusing on tragedy. Colleges want to know what you will bring to campus on a positive note. I’d ask your counselor to talk about your difficult background. Colleges hear a lot of sad stories, don’t expect to be given an edge for one. It can happen under certain circumstances, but it is not something to count on.</p>

<p>We don’t know your rank, but we know your scores are low for these schools. Make sure you have safeties you like.</p>

3

<p>I’m only applying to one other school, a state school on the west coast.</p>

4

<p>I suggest you apply to some other safeties.</p>

5

<p>If you’re guaranteed admission and you’d be hppy at the school–perfect!</p>