Chances at CMU

Colleges & Universities Carnegie Mellon University
1

<p>Does CMU value work experience highly? </p>

<p>I’m an international high school student (Singapore) in senior year, interested to major in Computer Science at CMU. </p>

<p>However, my general results aren’t that great (see SAT scores below) but I do have plenty of industry-standard work experience in the field of Computer Security. </p>

<p>I have been highly involved in the field since 2-3 years ago and have clocked at least 6 months equivalent of official experience in research and penetration testing, and more if considering unofficial ones. </p>

<p>I’m really passionate about Computer Security, and I also take GCE ‘A’ Levels H2 Computing and rank top in the subject in a highly-competitive school. </p>

<p>What are my chances? If I only have time to retake one SAT test, which should it be? How can I best demonstrate my experience and passion for the field? </p>

<p>Thanks! </p>

<hr>

<p>Scores from first attempts </p>

<p>SAT Reasoning Test </p>

<p>Reading: 660
Math: 720
Writing: 550 </p>

<p>SAT Subject Tests </p>

<p>Mathematics Level 1: 740
Mathematics Level 2: 700
Physics: 730</p>

2

<p>Like you said, SAT could use improvement but assuming a 3.5+ GPA I think you’re in solid condition.</p>

3

<p>Awesome work experience–that’ll very certainly help you land internships/jobs.</p>

<p>The school of computer science is quite math heavy–they would definitely be a little turned off by the math scores.</p>

<p>Would you consider the Information Systems major as well? That would give you a stronger chance.</p>