Expert: Bruce - 6/10/2008

Question
Currently I'm a sophomore. My average for last year was 96, and this year it's 90, and I'm extremely worried. Only the AP Class is weighted; my school doesn't weight honors classes.

My dream schools are Carnegie Mellon, NYU, Johns Hopkins.
If I make major improvements during Junior Year, do I stand a chance?

Would the fact that I'm in the science research program, science honor society, fencing team, and a published artist/poet help me at all? I'm planning to join science olympiad and the newspaper, and I signed up to take a college class next year. Would those ECs help me? I'm talented in art and piano, how can I make the best use of my abilities?

As for tests, I'm not really worried because I test well. I did extremely well on PSATS, and I got a 790 on the bio sat ii test i took last year.

Do I have a chance? What should I do?

Answer
Katherine,

I cannot speak for the schools you list, but I can tell you that you will be a strong candidate for a number of excellent schools. I suggest that you contact admission officers at these colleges, tell them a bit about your background and ask what they think you can do do maximize your opportunity. That's what admission counselors are there for.

Put in a good good junior year in the classroom (and first half senior year) and you'll be right there in the mix for the schools you name. Keep in mind, though, that you aren't doomed to a less than wonderful like if you do not end up attending one of these three.

I am a bit concerned that you may be putting excessive pressure on yourself - please be wary of adding too many things just to build a resume - especially at your age. You are obviously bright and motivated and are plannign ahead. Those traits will take you far.

Have you a larger list of colleges to check out? You seem to have a northeastern slant and since I am in NY let me suggest some places to check out:

Hamilton
Colgate
Drew
RPI
Union
Univ of Toronto
SUNY Binghamton
Bucknell

Best wishes,

Bruce