Do you think that it is possible for a student who did average in high school - Page 3

Protagonist111 · 10-06-2009, 05:23 PM

that was a really inspiring story you made up.

As for me guys, I really want to leave the state of GA forever if possible. I don't want to come back here ever in my life, I really want to go to the Northeast for my undergrad or at least live in the Northeast or Northwest. People in the deep South really are bigoted (not all but a large majority). I hope one day I do get out of here, I have had a painful life here in GA.

Well, now its time for me to get to work on that SAT.

Protagonist111 · 10-06-2009, 10:15 PM

does it matter more where you go for your undergrad or where you go to grad school?

TwistedxKiss · 10-06-2009, 11:03 PM

I didn't make it up, it's true!

I would argue it matters a lot more where you go to grad school, however if you go to podunk no-name undergrad institution you might have your work cut out for you trying to get admitted to the big name grad schools. There is some level of balance, too.

starbright · 10-06-2009, 11:51 PM

If you go to grad school, it will never matter where you went to undergrad.

You can go to lots and lots of undergrad schools to get the education, research experience and guidance from faculty that you need to get into the very best graduate programs. The top 50 are probably just fine (I use these silly ranking numbers very loosely, but hopefully you get my point). Moreover, graduate programs in particular fields, going to a well known school in that field (in our field, one such school is a state school with open admissions for example), is as good as "prestige U".

Protagonist111 · 10-08-2009, 04:41 PM

thanks guys, it also sucks that I am Asian American

QwertyKey · 10-08-2009, 04:52 PM

^Maybe if you tried a little harder that wouldn't be such a handicap... Get over it. Either way, if you're really going for a 4.0 it's going to be easier at a college with a lower caliber of student.

musicamusica · 10-08-2009, 05:12 PM

My D had VERY similar stats and graduated Summa Cum Laude and got into every grad program she applied to. Chose the one that offered the most fellowship money.(just sayin) I think it is all about having a passion for your area of study.

Protagonist111 · 10-08-2009, 06:15 PM

this is why I was complaining about being Asian

Do Elite Private Colleges Discriminate Against Asian Students? - US News and World Report

poetgrl · 10-08-2009, 07:00 PM

You've got an incredible essay to write and a lot of fantastic experiences which will allow you to go to at least somewhere in the Northeast. One bit of advice, though, when you are writing your essays leave out the poor me parts of your story and emphasize what you have GAINED from your experience. Do not go into how much you hate the place you live.....Go into how vast your experience is and how easily you adapt and how much you bring to the table in this way. Never let an admissions officer catch you feeling sorry for yourself. What they want to know is what you have to offer THEM, not what you didn't get when you were growing up.

starbright · 10-08-2009, 07:17 PM

^ Absolutely agree with this. Well said.

Protagonist111 · 10-09-2009, 02:35 PM

well guys, I take the SATs tomorrow!

wish me luck!

poetgrl · 10-09-2009, 03:15 PM

.....luck!

Protagonist111 · 10-09-2009, 04:51 PM

twisted, I am sorry, I know you did not make up that story but I kind of got lost with my words, by made up I actually meant post.

Poetgrl thanks.

Also, everyone, I would like to hear more true stories. Also twisted, it would be cool if I could keep in touch with you.

Quantenoptik · 10-09-2009, 04:55 PM

Hmm, I wonder if they did that with Bill Gates, haha.

Protagonist111 · 10-09-2009, 04:56 PM

did what with bill gates?