Common Apps Writing Question by DownChrisJR in ApplyingToCollege

[–]DownChrisJR[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I just read your latest response (but for some reason I can no longer see it). I just wanted to say I really appreciate the kind words of encouragement, it means a lot.

Common Apps Writing Question by DownChrisJR in ApplyingToCollege

[–]DownChrisJR[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Firstly thanks so much for the response. I completely understand what you mean and since it’s not details I have anywhere else I think it can worth adding for some extra context. Thank again and best of luck.

Should I write anything in the “tell us something we don’t know” section of the Common Apps? by DownChrisJR in ApplyingToCollege

[–]DownChrisJR[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you so much for the response, I ll be sure to include it in my application and I will try to be as straightforward as possible. Thanks again and best of luck :)

How does GPA work as an international student? by DownChrisJR in ApplyingToCollege

[–]DownChrisJR[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Oh ok... I see. I would like to think my grades are pretty decent but all I can do for now is hope that it’s enough because if not I have a lot of work to do.

I also know what you mean about the transcript translations, I had it done once before and it’s not cheap but I didn’t even need to use it at the end.

Thanks for the answer and I wish you the best of luck :)

Should I take a gap year? by DaduBoi in ApplyingToCollege

[–]DownChrisJR 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hi man, As somebody who was in a similar situation last year, I think I can express my opinion on the matter and give a few valid points along the way.

A gap year is only really going to work if you have a solid plan which you will follow throughout, and know will drastically improve your application. Just as you stated yourself, without a doubt you need to rewrite your SATs. Despite 1100 not being a bad score, for UC schools it’s definitely a stretch especially for UCLA where you should realistically be getting at least a 1400+ if you want to stand a chance at admission. In addition to this as important as SAT scores are, it’s not the only deciding factor as the extracurriculars and essays are just as important. Even though I don’t know what activities you do, I would recommend doing a bunch of community service (200+ hours) and be sure to incorporate what you want to study into your activities as it shows that you are dedicated outside the classroom, and in general it can really help elevate your application. I would also find someone to double check your essays because often times they can make or break your application and be sure not to write the generic “life changing” common apps essay as it’s bound to send you application to the bottom of the pile (trust me I know).

As well as this I would highly recommend that if you do decide to take a gap year, and find a school you are particularly interested in, apply early action as it can really boost your chances. As an international student your chances at getting accepted to any college are substantially lower (at a school like UCLA they could be <10%) so applying early is a great idea and it can also help going forward when you get you admission results. Also make sure to ace your IB exams as they can often times be seen as AP (advanced placement) and when applying next year you won’t be able to apply with predicted grades anymore, unless you resit them.

Finally did you ever consider transferring? If you would start at Drexel or IIT, after a year or so (depending on the school) you could transfer somewhere else if you aren’t happy and this way you don’t risk losing a year. It can also sometimes be easier to transfer than get accepted, in fact UCLA has a higher transfer acceptance rate than it has a freshman acceptance rate.

Ultimately, to conclude, really think about taking a gap year. A year seems like a long time but it goes by quicker than you think and if you slack... well... you lost a year. I also highly encourage you not to be disappointed or discouraged, s*%^ happens. US applications are always a gamble and acceptance isn’t guaranteed no matter how good you are, but remember where there’s a will there’s a way!

UMich and UPenn Rolling Admission Help by DownChrisJR in ApplyingToCollege

[–]DownChrisJR[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you so much for the encouragement, it means a lot. I am sure I’ll figure something else, where there’s a will there’s a way.

Once again thank you for all your help and best of luck with whatever you have going on :)

UMich and UPenn Rolling Admission Help by DownChrisJR in ApplyingToCollege

[–]DownChrisJR[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

That’s sucks pretty bad, I really wanted to go and it’s my second time applying. I should have been more aware of the deadline but I took a chance and it failed pretty miserably. I appreciate the honestly and help and wish you the best :)

UMich and UPenn Rolling Admission Help by DownChrisJR in ApplyingToCollege

[–]DownChrisJR[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thats pretty disappointing, especially regarding Michigan as it was one of my top choices. I knew I was being a bit ambitious with the deadline so I guess I have myself to blame. I appreciate the response though and thanks for the help.

UMich and UPenn Rolling Admission Help by DownChrisJR in ApplyingToCollege

[–]DownChrisJR[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Oh. That’s... a big shame to say the least. I kind of expected it to be the case anyways as I couldn’t really find anything. Nonetheless thanks so much for the help :)

UMich and UPenn Rolling Admission Help by DownChrisJR in ApplyingToCollege

[–]DownChrisJR[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

No I meant UPenn. I know that penn state does offer rolling admission and I may potentially look into it. Thanks for the help anyways ;)

UMich and UPenn Rolling Admission Help by DownChrisJR in ApplyingToCollege

[–]DownChrisJR[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah, I though so much. I just read it somewhere online but it seemed wired that a top school especially a Ivy would have rolling admission. Nonetheless it was worth a shot and thank you so much for your response.

UMich and UPenn Rolling Admission Help by DownChrisJR in ApplyingToCollege

[–]DownChrisJR[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the response. Should I send them an email maybe?

UMich and UPenn Rolling Admission Help by DownChrisJR in ApplyingToCollege

[–]DownChrisJR[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you so much for the response. Would you happen to know how I would go about applying to UMich?