<p>I tried to add to my post last evening, but "Forum Problems" got in the way.</p>
<p>cindy - I think you had mentioned in previous posts that you planned to retake SAT/ACT. Did you do that and, if so, what were the new scores?</p>
<p>Do you know what your family's EFC is? If you will qualify for substantial need-based aid, then earning merit scholarships may not be critical for you. If you need merit scholarships, then schools like Stanford and Columbia won't work for you, I believe, as their aid is only need-based.</p>
<p>Stanford does not have undergraduate Business majors, so I'm thinking that school will not work for your interests. </p>
<p>Because you are Mexican and from Central California and first-generation college student, I think that enhances your chances for admission over what they would be based purely on scores/GPA/rank. But I don't know whether they will get you merit $$.</p>
<p>Tell us more about your latest scores, your likelihood to get need-based financial aid, and whether you have had any discussions with a college guidance counselor IRL about potential for scholarships for you. Then we can advise better.</p>
<p>IMO, you should not worry at this point about trying to get more involved in your ECs/activities for the sake of college apps. You are already a senior; you are a strong student with many outside interests and ECs. Be proud of what they are. Don't worry about trying to making them something else.</p>
<p>Your focus should be on finding colleges that <em>fit you</em> rather than trying to make yourself fit certain colleges. We can help with that, with just a little more information.</p>