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Expert: - 3/27/2009


Question
Hi Todd.

How are you? My name is Julian and I am 35 years of age. I have some
questions about going back to college. I failed the SATs, as a result,  I had to
go to community college. I attended Miami Dade Community College and
graduated with two degrees in Graphic Design Technology. However, I have
no talent in the field despite having two degrees! Therefore, I am seriously
considering going back to college and do something that I know I will enjoy
doing. The thing is, I work a lot of hours at job, which is why I'm looking into
taking online courses. There are certain advantages for going this route such
as no driving, thus, saving money on gas and not to mention avoiding the
need to park my car in overcrowded parking lots. I would like to find an Ivy
League university that offers online courses.

1. Do you know of any?

2. Also, what are my requirements for qualifying for an Ivy League university?

3. Do I need to retake the SATs?

4. Do I need to undertake extracurricular activities or community services?

Best regards,

Julian

Answer
Julian,

To my knowledge none of the Ivy League colleges have online courses for credit. The requirements for these schools vary but generally you need combined SAT scores in excess of 2100 and top grades in high schools. Most of them have very few spots for transfer students.

I would suggest that you get some career counseling to determine what you should focus your efforts on. Then you can find a school that best fits those needs. However, most of the very competitive schools will be difficult with your background. There are, however, many excellent colleges besides the Ivy Leagues.

Good luck.

Choosing the Right College

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Volunteer

Todd Johnson

Expertise

I can help students and families understand the whole college admissions process from evaluating what a student wants from a college to finding the right college. This includes advising on the college application, the essay, recommendations and visiting colleges. I also can help families understand college financial aid. I have particular expertise in helping students who are applying to BS/MD programs.

Experience

I am a lawyer as well as a college admission consultant and have spent more than 11 years consulting with students and families on how to find the right college for each student. I work with students throughout the US as well as international students who wish to attend college in the US. I have helped hundreds of students find the best college for each student's needs. I have particular expertise helping students become the most competitive candidate for BS/MD programs.

Organizations
Independent Educational Consultants Association, Professional Member; Higher Education Consultants Association; National Association for College Admission Counseling; Minnesota Association for College Admission Counseling

Publications
Todd is the author of "BS/MD Programs-The Complete Guide: Getting into Medical School from High School." College Admissions Counseling’s blog content has been featured by the Chicago Sun Times, Fox News, Reuters and other major websites. It is syndicated by Blogburst.

Education/Credentials
BA St. Olaf College; JD Washington University in St. Louis

Awards and Honors
I am an instructor for the University of California Irvine extension.

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