<p>I’m usually a 3.8 unweighted, 4.2 weighted GPA student, but because of a family crisis this last month, my grades have dropped to B’s. I’m confident I can pull up to straight A’s by the end of the semester. But as it is, I have a 3.5 unweighted, 3.8 weighted.</p>
<p>I’m a full IB Diploma candidate, with a projected score of 38-39. I got 29 on the ACT and 2000 on the SAT. I’ve volunteered 500 hours at the zoo and science museum. I’ve been to Vietnam on a Medical Mission. (I love volunteering, as you can probably guess!) I’ve been in five school plays (about 200 hours per show), I’m an active member of the swim team, NSHSS, Mensa. I’m also a singer and I do acrobatics (trapeze, a little gymnastics).</p>
<p>Also, for what it’s worth, I struggle with the autistic spectrum (I have Asperger’s), and moderate to severe depression. I’ve had both of these all my life. I’m not planning to use it as an excuse for low grades. I just want to impress by showing all I’ve done despite disabilities.</p>
<p>You have very good shot…considering youre an IB diploma candidate and you did relatively well. Your test scores are below or at the 25th percentile. However, you have an amazing hook. Despite your disability you have shown your ability to persevere beyond measure. Kudos to you! I really hope you get in!</p>
<p>of course you should apply! you obviously are very talented and smart! it doesn’t matter that you’re not a “perfect” applicant… you can show that you can persevere and defeat your disabilities. take the chance and believe in your abilities! i think you have what it takes:)</p>
<p>Because of your hook, you have a good chance of getting in, but your test scores are really, really low for UChicago. Right now, the gpa is also very low. Normally someone with these numbers would not have a great shot at admission, but your case is much different because of the extenuating circumstances. You should definitely apply, and I hope you get in.</p>
<p>Write good essays. No, really – write good, compelling essays. </p>
<p>As for a struggle with the autism spectrum, truly it sounds difficult – however, it is up to you to frame it, concisely, in such a way that makes it compelling, and not simply an excuse for poor academic performance. Many of your fellow applicants (who have better grades and better SATs) have overcome their own share of struggles, and will be writing about them as well. It was would a mistake to implicitly insinuate yours are “harder” than theirs. Your job is to show UChicago that you are unique. They’ll take it from there. </p>
<p>As for whether you can get in with your grades and scores, you decidedly can, so take heart! A very strong application and a good interview and you should have a solid shot.</p>