<p>UCLA would be my top choice, but Vanderbilt would also be a top contender.
I am from CT and have visited both of these schools.
My GPA for my sophomore year was around 3.7. My GPA for junior year was not as strong (about a 3.4) but i was taking a lot of very hard classes (all but one was college level/AP). Both of these are UW.
SAT score was 2120 (CR 760, M 690, W 670) , but i am planing on taking it once more in my senior year and hoping to get at least 100 points better.
I took the Math II SAT and got 750 and the Chemistry one and got 710.
I am a member of World Language Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta. Both of which i have tutored students in.
I was a part of Best Buddies Club.
I have done piano for about 11 years and every year participate in this program called the guild (you play for a judge and can get medals etc. I have been in their national magazine twice).
I volunteer at a local hospital as well as a the local senior center. I tutor children who have trouble reading as well. I am part of the advisory committee for that program too. I volunteer at an art institute at a local university, helping docents and setting up exhibits, etc.
I intern for my mother at her financial planning business and am part of student congress.
I have been told i’m a good writer so i am hoping essays and personal statement for UCLA would help my resume. I have had struggles in my life that i would be able to pull from that have definitely shaped my life.
Also my family would be prepared to pay full tuition.
Thanks!</p>
<p>Both are high reaches. Also, with your essays, I’m not sure that colleges will buy that you have had struggles. If you can afford full tuition at Vanderbilt, you have had a fairly privileged life.</p>
<p>I agree that both are high reaches, but working hard to improve your sat score and/or taking act might help. Certainly UCONN should be on your list and you may qualify for their honors program. There are probably several dozen well known institutions in New England alone that would be a good fit and that would find you an attractive applicant. </p>
<p>But anniebeats, there are many more ways that a student may face struggles even if they are financially well off. OP may not want to share, but a parent with alcohol, psych or serious medical problems might count. A sibling with cancer or who died - think sibling of a Newtown shooting victim - this happened near to where I live and though most families were financially well to do, all that mattered not a bit. Sexually assaulted by family, friend or local priest. All of these could really cause hardship for a student even in the face of financial luxury.</p>
<p>Both are reaches better chance at Vanderbilt! </p>
<p>yes my struggles would obviously not be financial. i’ve had to deal with other things. any tips on improving my chances thought? I am considering UCONN but i would really like to get out of New England.</p>
<p>Now go get a few non-reaches…</p>