<p>I’m a new poster. But, I’ve been reading this forums a while, have gone through the process myself, have friends who have gone through it, and have a friend who is an admission counselor at a prestigious college. So, while I may not be on the same level as some chancers here, I know what I’m talking about. I’m going to be a college sophomore by the way.</p>
<p>Columbia- Like all ivies, it’s tough to say. A high reach. You need a hook. You’re SAT scores are there, I’m not sure you should send all of your APs. Just 4’s and 5’s if that’s an option</p>
<p>NYU- Match. </p>
<p>UPenn- Very high reach.
Yale- Very high reach.
Brown- High reach.
Amherst- High reach.
Williams- High reach.</p>
<p>Advice: Since you’re a junior, you have time. Do something interesting this summer. Start a community service project, make a movie, write a book, whatever you’re passionate about. You’re a dance choreographer, do something with that. Actually, two two to four things, but don’t sacrifice quality on any of them for quantity. Looking like you can handle a lot is important. Maybe even take some classes or grab a part time job. Follow through and consistency is important I believe. Maybe do some more volunteering. Just don’t “chill” all summer.</p>
<p>Try to establish closer relationships with the teachers you expect to ask to write your recs. Keep in touch via email, give them more information about yourself when you finally ask (if they dont already request that).</p>
<p>Make sure you’re essay is thoughtful. Creative topics are probably helpful, but not necessarily compulsory. I’ve heard admission counselors say that what’s important isn’t necessarily how “unique” the topic is (many of them have been doing this for many years and have seen everything), but rather how thoughtfully your ideas play out and how they portray you as a person. You said you don’t expect your essay to be exceptional. That is unacceptable as far as I’m concerned and is the way counselors distinguish between candidates with all the same SAT/GPA numbers. I wish I had spent more time on mine. Work at it, have your english teacher/parents help you make it as good as it can be and still be your voice. </p>
<p>I don’t know how many times you’ve taken the SAT, but I would take it one more time to try to break 700 with writing. <em>Crash course in SAT writing</em> Honestly, I think I only got a 9 or MAYBE 10 on the actual essay portion and still got an 800 on the section. The questions are 70% of the writing score I believe, or close to it. So, develop 2-3 good examples with the best vocab you know how to use with an intro and conclusion, making sure to use specific examples. As for the more important part, the questions, read them very carefully and watch for basic grammar errors and just think carefully before choosing “None of the above.” I think I heard only about 1/5 are actually that answer.</p>
<p>When you send in your applications, although it didn’t help me much, I think letters of continuing interest are helpful and give you a leg up. Pick the admission counselor who you think read your app (or ask them to forward it to that person), and send a letter stating why you really want to go there and think you would be a good fit. And mail in additional/supporting documents if you can’t fit everything on common app.</p>
<p>As it stands, it’s very possible you’ll get rejected/wl’ed everywhere except nyu just because of the number of qualified applicants. If you feel passionate about Amherst or Williams, apply early and you’ll have a MUCH better chance.</p>
<p>I think you should apply to every school you listed, though, in addition of course to a couple more matches/safeties.</p>
<p>Hope that helped. Also, I’m not trying to discourage you. You definitely appear to have the potential to get into any of these schools, I’m just trying to help you stand out.</p>
<p>:) Let me know if you have any questions and what the eventual results are!</p>