ckim09

So, I was looking at the 2012 acceptance thread and the huge range of people who have been accepted or rejected kind of scared me.

I know that since Smith doesn't require the SAT anymore and because it emphasizes other aspects of one's application besides stats that high scores and GPA don't mean guaranteed admission, but how "important" are the numbers especially for 2013?
My GPA went down to a 3.69 this semester (2nd sem. junior), and I was wondering to what extent this will hurt my application. Also, how much would an interview/demonstrating great interest in the school make up for somewhat lackluster stats? Thanks

dhazelnut1234

Smith seems to look at the whole person not just grades. My daughter was 18 out of a class of 174 and got on the wait list and just got in. She had alot of community service, was secretary of her class, head of the astronomy club, worked and played two varsity sports. Senior team leader, honors club etc. I think that if you are well rounded and get good grades, you will have a good chance. Definately go for the interview, it will show you are interested and they look highly at that. Also, they look at how hard your course load is so take some AP courses if you can.

SmithieandProud

The interview doesn't hurt and might really help your chances, so if you're worried, I would say go for it.

BUT I would also say that the people who are attracted to sites like CC and boards like this one can make any school seem intimidating, since they are more invested than most in the admissions process. Don't get freaked out. Just get the best grades you can, do the things you love to do, and things will work out the way they are supposed to.

perjef17

As an incoming freshman , I can say that I truely think that smith looks at an applicants as a whole. I had a pretty low gpa compared to a lot of the other applicant (a 3.33!), and I don't think my essay was anything outstanding. But I did show a lot of interest, got decent SAT scores (2070), and i was active in alot of different actives. It's good if you show interest in a school. An interview and stay over would be great if possible. Also, if smith is your first choice, I would highly recommend applying early decision because the chances of getting in is much higher. Another aspect that I really think helped me get in is by getting in contact with the soccer coach. Through out the whole process, he was very helpful and he was able to write a recommendation for me. If you play any sports or are interested in music, I would hightly suggest getting in contact with a coach or music teacher because you want to get on there radar as much as possible. Other than that, keep up your grades, try to show interest and active participation in different activies.

Soshell32

i would say that it truly depends upon how you decide to project yourself through your college essay. its your opportunity to show that you're fit for the school, not only because of your numbers, but also your passion and interest.