What are they looking for?

<p>as I've heard, they don't take SAT/ACT scores, and grades don't seem to be the biggest factor either, so what DO they want from their applicants? I'm thinking of applying, but still not sure if SLC's academic lifestyle is right for me. I'm an IB diploma candidate and want to major (or, uh, concentrate? lol) in philosophy; but I'm not sure if I would like they way everything seesm to be so unstructured (not in a bad way, I mean) Along with the first question, could anyone clarify for me further they way the college "works"?</p>

<p>Though I don't attend the college (i'll be applying for Fall 2008 admission), from what I've learned discussing with students online that ACTUALLY attend SLC, it seems that the major things they tend to focus on their applicants are basically their grades from high school and their ESSAY. They tend to place emphasis on the essay, since at SLC you have to be prepared to do A LOT of writing and papers, since it takes the place of exams and such in most cases. </p>

<p>In terms of how the college works, I'm still trying to understand that myself. I plan on hopefully visiting this Fall to get a better understanding. Using the seminar-conference system:</p>

<p>Seminar: majority of the courses limit the class size to 15 students (smaller classes, highly interacted classes). You take 3 courses per semester. </p>

<p>Conference: Each student is assigned a "Don", or faculty adviser, in which you meet privately, semi-weekly. The "don" helps to discuss and plan the student's own program of study. Basically, you develop individual projects, relating to the course, but is in YOUR own interests. So, you take a class in philosophy, and you decide to do a conference paper on, maybe, an analysis on the Socratic Method and its significance on the beliefs of those living in the modern day world.....or something like that.</p>

<p>Anyway, I hope that somewhat clears it up. You don't have to declare a major right away. You take the courses you want to focus on while exploring other interest. On the SLC website, there was one girl who intended to focus on acting, but then became interested in economics...by the 2nd year she ditch economics for spanish and biology...final year she incorperates both spanish and biology by preparing for medical school in a spanish-speaking country. You might find 2 things that you are interested in which could be merged into one area of interest.</p>

<p>What my daughter likes best is there are no prerequisites for courses you're interested in. And that when choosing your courses you interview the professor, not the other way around. With no grades, the evaluations are quite in-depth and descriptive which, for a parent, really lets you know the students and the teachers have a unique relationship as partners in the endeavor. Also, if there isn't a course offered in something you want to study, or expand upon, your Don will help you design one. I can't tell you how it all works out from an after-college or career standpoint but my daughter---now going into her fourth year (third at SLC as a transfer)---has already had one internship in the city during the school year, and is really very happy at SLC.</p>

<p>What they're looking for on your application is a proficiency in writing beyond most any other school. It seems to be what they rely on most for admission, in addition to high-school record and challenging course load. You will do a lot of writing for nearly every class. Check out the course listing for a rather interesting and eclectic classes and titles.</p>

<p>Very interesting thread. My daughter is interested in a journalism major. Is it safe to assume this would be a very good college for this major and creative writing.
We are not too familiar with the college's programs but intend to research this. We like the location of the college as well. It seems its close access to NYC would be a strong benefit. Thanks</p>

<p>SLC isn't unstructured, it's just hard to explain the academic life because every single individual has adjusted it to fit their own needs and wants. You choose your classes. You do everything you want to do. No requirements. No restrictions. For some, this is too overwhelming and they don't do well. For others, they flourish in this independent environment.</p>

<p>They want a person who is aware of their individuality. They want you to be able to express yourself well through writing. (The essay is very important through this reason.)</p>