<p>People all the time are going crazy over 2400 SAT people getting rejected. But, it seems to me that in this current age of college applications, more colleges are looking for uniqueness in an individual rather than perfect grades. I was just wondering if you guys shared the same views as me that colleges (even Ivies) basically look at applications in this way:
First, they glance at GPA, curriculum, and SAT scores (let’s be realistic; admissions dpt. people cannot spend hours reviewing each application; there simply isn’t enough time.) If they are in any way high, they proceed to the next step (below).
Then, they look at essays, recommendations, EC’s, etc in search of uniqueness and love of learning or interest in a certain subject. If the person is very unique, then he or she will get in; if the person is not unique, despite great scores and grades, he or she will be rejected.</p>
<p>Basically, what I am saying here, is that I feel that colleges these days do not see much of a difference between a 2150 and a 2280 on the SATs, nor do they see much of a difference between a 4.0 and a 4.2 in one’s GPA. I am pretty sure that once someone “passes” the GPA/SAT test, they look at other stuff and never look back.</p>
<p>People go crazy when a person with 2400 SATs, lots of APs, and perfect GPA with loads of EC’s is rejected, but I think that colleges would actually rather see less EC’s, but more revolving around a certain subject (same with APs).
I use Brown as an example because it is a school I am very interested in attending. Here are my stats:</p>
<p>-Best public school in NJ (sends lots of kids to top schools including Ivies)
-4.0 W GPA (A=4, A-=3.67; 3.33 increase for honors, an additional 3.33 increase for APs)
-SATs: 730 M 710 CR 780 W
-AP’s: European History (5), American History (5), BC Calc (5), English Language (5), Literature (5), Psycology (5)
-EC’s: placed first in three large writing contests, had multiple works published in major magazines, school newspaper, literature magazine, started an animal shelter, camp counselor for 4 yrs, 150 hrs of comm service
-Essays and recs are great</p>
<p>Basically, I am especially strong in writing. While my other stats may seem average compared to other Ivy applicants, I feel as though the fact that my EC’s and AP’s (there are only two English AP’s offered) are centered around writing will set me apart. In my essay, I will touch upon the two things that I love most, writing and animals. </p>
<p>Write back telling me what you think. Do you agree that centering one’s interests in one area looks good to colleges? And what about my chances?</p>