Happy to hear that Vandy is a favorite place for your application. You have a better than average chance although ridiculous as it is an ACT of 35 is common in the application pool of 30 thousand people. So what are the things you can do? Well, of those 30000 some can’t actually afford their estimated cost of attendance. So be sure your family CAN by doing the work early figure out your FAFSA and CSProfile. Some of the 30 thousand do not really want to move to Nashville and go to Vandy but would consider if accepted. Are you more keen on Vandy? Why. Be very specific in your essays. In fact, never write an essay and send it to all your colleges. Personalize all of them. Sit down with your college references by appointment and share with them your take on your odds of admission. (very unpredictable!!). We did this, and to my shock one of my son’s reference writers wrote the most incredible letter ever on why my son would be an asset to Vandy or a good match. Do NOT expect high school teachers to have the time to personalize their letters of recommendation UNLESS you make it short sweet and clear with them Why Vandy. They get that you can’t count on any school like Vandy, and make sure to tell them about your other likely admissions and hopes. Is there some way you are planning to use Vanderbilt that is refreshing and smart? Every college is different. But they really really care about their academic paths you may pursue. You don’t have to promise your first born child if you change paths.
What personal values from your ethnic roots, family values, or regional outlook will make you a refreshing person on campus? Don’t be a stranger. They only have 10 minutes to think about you.
Never exaggerate anything. Who you really are is good enough. Best of luck. Our son’s freshman roommate was a very hard working guy who majored in Econ, did a lot of pickup basketball, was keen on Vandy sports and did his parents a favor by graduating a semester early to save them $. He also got work as an RA, was good to new students and saved his folks $ that way as well. Hard working very pleasant Orange County guy.