Chances at Bowdoin?

Philosopher-King · 08-06-2009, 01:00 PM

-GPA: not calculated by school; 3-year average is around 94% and has gone up each year (93 freshman, 94 sophomore, 95 junior)
-SAT: 2200 (770 CR, 630 Math, 800 Writing; will retake in October)
-AP: No AP classes offered at school; 2 AP exams (European History, English Language - both 5s)
-Editorial (Opinion) Editor on school paper
-"Summa Cum Laude"/gold medal for performance on National Latin Examination
-Nothing of advantage in "diversity" category: Caucasian from Long Island. However, I do play an obscure musical instrument (dulcimer) and have an adopted African-American sibling.
-My grades are borderline - not bad, but not at the top of the class - but I am keenly interested in philosophy, literature, etc and have read much out of class (Plato, Aristotle, Dickens, Dostoevsky, et al) that can be discussed in essays. I will also probably get at least a couple of excellent recommendation letters as I participate in class often and I think several of my teachers think quite highly of me.
I don't feel qualified to chance in reply; sorry.

Tzar09 · 08-06-2009, 03:59 PM

I think your chances are pretty good. You should take SAT subject tests before your apply, though.

The whole bit about you taking two AP tests even though your school does offer AP classes is awesome. Make sure to include that in your app.

Tzar09 · 08-06-2009, 04:00 PM

Oh, and where on LI are you from?

Philosopher-King · 08-06-2009, 04:29 PM

North Shore.
And should I take a math SATII in addition to US History and Literature (which I was planning to take) even if it won't be as strong, just to look more ambitious?

Tzar09 · 08-06-2009, 11:03 PM

Quality over quantity.

Two is fine. Three is better, but not if you don't do well on the third. Four is always unnecessary.

frogger_1234 · 08-12-2009, 01:02 AM

I think you have a very good chance. In terms of your essay, you say that you could use your outside reading--just be sure to make it about YOU. You don't need to use anything fancy as long as it gets their attention and tells them something about you. So be careful about making it seem like you are trying to show them you're smart. They'll already know that!