I’m currently a junior and I’m really looking into Dartmouth as my first choice. Here it goes:
SAT 1410 (retaking soon though)
5.0 GPA, 3 APs this year, 4 next year
From a very good public high school in PA
Track (indoor & outdoor) JV and varsity
Double bass & well known orchestra
Volunteer in orchestra for young kids
Work at public library
That’s all I can think of. Feel free to ask for clarification. Thanks!
I don’t do chance me’s because IMHO, only the admissions officers know the answer. With that said, I will give you the recommendation I give to anyone applying to Dartmouth…or any other selective college for that matter.
Take some time to put yourself in the admissions officer’s shoes - why would they want to accept you over the tens of thousands of other applicants? At Dartmouth, the vast number of applicants are academically qualified - something like 70-75%. So that doesn’t really get you in on its own. So, why you? After the numbers, it’s really all about the narrative that’s in your application folder. When the AOs use the word “holistic” to describe the admissions process, they aren’t joking. Every part of your application needs to work together to create a compelling argument as to why you should be accepted over the other applicants. Dartmouth is very big on fit. How will you contribute to the Dartmouth community? What essential niche will you fill?
If you really want to apply to Dartmouth ED, then I suggest that you begin by researching what makes Dartmouth unique and special. Then, do a little self-reflection. After that, craft a narrative (an honest one!) tailored specifically to Dartmouth, and work towards making a strong and inspiring argument with all the options available in your application.
@Shrmpngrtz would this component of “interest” in the school be demonstrated only in the essay? Is there anything I can do to craft myself to be the best applicant I can? (Summer programs, etc)