soshi

I'm only a junior but after reading 10 or so threads here on CC and reviews from other sources, I think Brandeis is a very good fit for me. Of course I won't know for sure until I actually visit since many people say that the campus is somewhat run down and in a state of disrepair, but it is definitely one of my top choices (if not THE top choice). The problem is... Brandeis is a high reach for me and I am especially worried about my GPA (expected to be about 3.6 UW at the time of application), so could you current Brandeis students post your stats, please? GPA and SAT Reasoning scores will be enough, no need to list all your ECs unless you really want to help me out Thank you!

And also, my school doesn't weigh GPAs; how should I calculate my weighted GPA? I've heard that different schools weigh GPAs differently...

SAT: about 2200 (aiming for 2300 when I take it in October)
ECs: just average, nothing spectacular
Junior year course schedule: APUSH, AP Biology, AP Calculus AB, Spanish 4 Honors, American Lit, Photography

My low GPA was because of laziness, mostly. Fortunately I've become much more motivated and I am currently doing really well. Unfortunately... I think it's too late to significantly increase my chances. I also go to a competitive high school (one of the top 5 in California, about 50th in the nation) And my school doesn't rank, as far as I know, so I have no clue what percent I'm in. Will a significant increase in GPA from 9th/10th grade to 11th grade be impressive at all?

soshi

Okay so I found this thread:
Decision Thread with Stats

but if you could still comment and answer some of my other questions I would be forever grateful! (:

brandeismom

if you are really interested in brandeis, be sure to visit and be sure to interview when you apply. my understanding is that they look at demonstrated interest.

re the brandeis campus -- there always seems to be some construction going on. they recently rebuilt a group of dorms. other dorms have been renovated. they are building a new admissions building. new academic buildings are opening. not a lot of old ivy -- there is a castle though!

fallorchid

my friend who is a freshman this year (ED admission) got 2100 on the first SAT sitting and 3.1 uw GPA. But he was from Brookline high school, one of the most reputable high schools in MA and perhaps in the nation. I think that's equivalent to your current school, a top 5 in CA. The important thing is, my friend said his essay demonstrated a fervent passion for medical study, and when I applied I also mostly discussed my aim for phd program. Kinda the same goes for some other friends. So I guessed the key is that Brandeis is a "nerdy" school and you should show some desire for study and sciences to get in, maybe?