would it be good to apply?

Colleges & Universities A-Z Pomona College
1

<p>Personally I've always liked chances, I feel like I'm really bonding with someone you know? I'm kidding.
Still I don't understand the violence of some people's reactions to them (i.e. how DARE you even THINK of wasting my time with a full 40 second reading and thoughtful answer that will relieve an enormous amount of anxiety for you etc etc) especially when they react like that on the What Are My Chances forum. </p>

<p>but I'm rambling.</p>

<p>I would be absolutely thrilled to go to Pomona, it is my second choice after the University of Chicago (I applied early) Do you think that I am dreaming, or would it be a sensible idea to apply?
these are my statistics:
I have a low GPA- 3.34 unweighted (health issues)</p>

<p>I got my SAT results back yesterday:</p>

<p>1540-2340 (800 CR, 740 Math, 800 writing, though I know they do not count this)
also 800 Math II C, 770 US History. Will take French and Chemistry in January.</p>

<p>I skipped a year in Math and French. Normally juniors at our high school only take one AP if they do at all, I took three:</p>

<p>exam results:</p>

<p>BC Calc 5 with 5 AB subscore
AP French 5
AP US History 5</p>

<p>National merit semifinalist, AP scholar. </p>

<p>This year's schedule</p>

<p>AP European History
AP Statistics
Discrete Mathematics at Boston University (college credit)
Seminar on Middle East that I helped organize- 4 highly motivated students, my headmaster (who will write me a letter of recommendation) and the head of the history department. At the end of the year we will publish our papers, I think I may submit my paper on Palestinian Economics to Pomona as a supplemental material.
European Literature Honors (No AP at the high school)
Second Semester I will begin study of Turkish at Harvard Extension School
(I wish to learn Hebrew, Arabic and Turkish)</p>

<p>I have gotten all As this quarter at high school. I think same will be next quarter.</p>

<p>Extracurriculars:ballroom dance at competitive level is my most important activity. Also guitar lessons, ceramic classes with a local artist, and volunteer tutoring of mathematics for 7th graders.
fluent in Russian, quite good in French.
and so,
thank you!</p>

2

<p>Would you be able to interview? Interviews play a significant role in Pomona's admission process, from what I've heard, and would give you a chance to explain the GPA situation (from what I see, your only weak point). If that isn't possible, the application should leave room for you to explain the drop. </p>

<p>Actually, the weak point in your grades, if managed properly, could be played as a positive thing: you have over come hardships to...</p>

<p>From what I can see, you are a very qualified applicant for any college, and have as good of a shot as anyone at Pomona. Don't let anyone tell you your EC's are lacking, either, just be sure to show devotion to something in your application.</p>

<p>Having said all this, you really shouldn't apply. I don't want the competition.</p>

3

<p>Your test scores and ECs are strong, and your GPA can be explained. Definitely request an alumni interview in the Boston area.</p>

<p>Good luck!</p>

4

<p>Unfortunately, the alumni interview request deadline was December 1 and has already passed. This isn't the end of the world, however. Many people are admitted to Pomona who never interviewed when they applied. Now, however, you must make sure to explain your GPA really well in writing in your application. Also, it would be beneficial to have your counselor address your GPA in his/her recommendation so that it confirms what you have to say about it. Good luck!</p>

5

<p>I suggest you follow Chopsticks3092's advice and if it's not too late use Recommendations to your full advantage - they can make you or break you when it comes to obvious holes in one's application</p>