chicago812

So here's my dilemma: Brown is basically my dream school, I'm in love with everything about it. The big thing that's shying me away from applying this fall is the acceptance rate. I plan on applying to either Brown or Vassar (which is also one of my top schools and also tough to get into) early admission. I know that I can't do both. I know that if I apply to Brown ED (which is the way I'll have the better chance for both) and don't get in, I've pretty much screwed my chances with Vassar and vice versa. I reeealllly need some advice, (if i even have a chance at either ) here's my credentials...

high school junior
African-American
GPA: 3.95 weighted 3.8 unweighted
top ~20% of class of 600
will have taken 8 AP and 5 honors by end of senior year

published poet
Relay For Life committee board, 2 years
National Honor Society, 2 years
School Newspaper 3 years, held an executive position
Art Magazine photo editor, 2 years
student government elected member, 2 years
art club, 3 years
speech, debate, and acting team (got 2nd place at university tournament)
junior and senior leader in PE division, 2 years
peer counselor, 2 years
C.H.A.N.G.E. Foundation member
volunteer on regular basis at church, ~8 years

I plan on writing about how growing up in a predominately white suburb whilst commuting to an all black church every sunday, and initially going to an all black christian school, has shaped the way I am

Uroogla

Why are you considering the schools ED? If Brown's your top choice, and financial aid isn't a huge issue, there's nothing wrong with applying ED. If it's not, don't. Applying early to get an admissions advantage isn't a great idea, since the benefit derived from applying early seems minimal (consider that the accept rate is much higher because a large number of recruited athletes have likely letters early and apply ED.

BrownAlumParent

I agree with Uroogla re if Brown is definitely your most favorite, really want school, then do early decision. I do think the probability of getting in ED are a bit better, just because they know it means you really want to be there. That said, you did not list test scores, but I would not put the chances of admission as very high. This is likely a "reach" school for you. While you have minority status, it does not sound like you are "underprivileged" minority, and Brown expects applicants with the opportunity for a good education to have excelled at it. (ie, top 10 of class, leadership positions, not just participating in EC or something else that stands out.). If you have superb board scores, then chances might be higher.

chicago812

Hey guys thanks for the advice. With a little thinking I think I've made my decision. Thanks again