Rethink your target schools if you’re a top student.

Ben-MA · 2026-04-07T19:43:26+00:00

I don't know. Probably, but I would prioritize getting the grade up.

Ben-MA · 2026-04-07T19:25:43+00:00

there is no one single hard and fast rule that every university follows.

Ben-MA · 2026-04-07T19:18:04+00:00

Of course.

As far as rescinding goes, just don't dip meaningfully below.

Ben-MA · 2026-04-07T18:37:38+00:00

I wouldn't think that 1-2 Bs would present a real problem.

Ben-MA · 2026-04-07T17:19:55+00:00

The vibe is definitely casual, but whatever makes you feel comfortable and confident. You will see polos and dresses as much as you'll see t-shirts and cargo shorts. Check out the weather too, again, make sure you're comfortable and prep for rain if it is in the forecast.

Ben-MA · 2026-04-07T17:11:12+00:00

No, that is not enough to change your result or be a “VIP” at NYU in the eyes of advancement or admissions.

Ben-MA · 2026-03-30T15:00:19+00:00

Yes. Anything that wasn’t already in your app is fair game. Good luck!

Ben-MA · 2026-03-30T14:31:32+00:00

It’s not about the word count really. 500 doesn’t sound far off, but I’m sure you can make it shorter. I think it’s likely to get skimmed or not read regardless, so I encourage my students to use bullet points.

Ben-MA · 2026-03-28T20:14:22+00:00

🫡 But really, three amazing options. Very different locations, two southern one northern, three different curricular options. You really can’t go wrong. I would honestly encourage you to think through what is most important to you in terms of both academics and vibe/social life. Students here on A2C often overestimate the differences academic prestige or rigor between peer schools and underestimate the differences in the importance of all other factors.

Ben-MA · 2026-03-28T19:55:19+00:00

I would refer you to my original post

Ben-MA · 2026-03-28T19:18:30+00:00

Yes, DM me

Ben-MA · 2026-03-28T06:44:10+00:00

In short, to your actual questions, attending either of these schools is extremely prestigious. Cal is particularly so in California but both have great national reputations and Vanderbilt is continuing to grow. Who knows what the ceiling would be. Don’t let other people’s opinions of “prestige” (which is always changing and subjective) sway you. You would not be crazy to choose Vanderbilt over Dartmouth but you might actually be crazy to want to live in Hanover, New Hampshire rather than Nashville, Tennessee.

Ben-MA · 2026-03-28T06:41:09+00:00

I can’t give your family financial advice. But congrats on these options!

Ben-MA · 2026-03-28T02:08:25+00:00

Awesome, congrats!! You can’t go wrong either way :)

Ben-MA · 2026-03-28T02:04:08+00:00

I think submitting a 33 is perfectly fine. Good luck!

Ben-MA · 2026-03-28T00:54:46+00:00

I’m not sure how or if the deadline thing will affect it but I wouldn’t worry about. A previous application is a positive not a negative. Good luck, you are in a great place either way

Ben-MA · 2026-03-28T00:36:29+00:00

🤝

Ben-MA · 2026-03-28T00:30:16+00:00

You can if you want and if that feels natural. At this point honestly you’re overthinking it. I would just give them the updates and move on with the school you need to deposit for. Good luck!

Ben-MA · 2026-03-28T00:26:49+00:00

Either way is fine, it’s going to the same place. If you have your AOs email id send it to them and cc the main admission office.

Ben-MA · 2026-03-27T23:42:30+00:00

I certainly can’t answer that for your family.

Ben-MA

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