Do I stand out a chance?

anon4this
Wed, 01 Sep 2010 22:20:12 +0000

Hi,
So let’s give a brief idea about my background:
Graduated last year from high school. Ranked 147 of around 30K participant. Got into the best (most selective?) university in my country (Tunisia) and now feeling sick and bored. Both with the quality of study and also I’m thinking seriously of a career change. My age is 19. I have been doing freelance programming in the side in this summer. I build websites and scripts. I can make $400-$600 a month (mind, I’m a starter anyway) and getting more and more successful.

Since I’m bored with the whole situation (uni + country + career) I’m considering to apply for Stanford (preferably, since it’s in the Bay Area). I also have interest/considering other universities.

So simply said, in this situation: What Are My Chances? (Financial aid is a must right now).

That’s question 1 [I don’t stand a chance]. Let’s move on, I still optimistic
My plan is simple: I’m growing an online business and projecting $30K-$40 in sale by summer 2011. And as my skills improve, I would be able to work at a $30/hour rate. If that ever happened, I’ll have two (?) sadvantages


I don’t need financial aid
I have made a success. Isn’t this a proof of my abilities.


Programming Background:
Started coding at the age of 11. At 18 turned from an amateur to a beginner. Right now getting mature on JavaScript and preparing a business plan (with rescue and alternative plans) for my next venture. I have a good (not excellent) social/coding profile.

Now you may ask: If I get successful, why the hell spend the money on a higher education. The answer is the network, the friends and the higher odds that I can be more and more successful.

Other questions:
Can I take the SAT and other exams? How? (Please, link to resources if you have)
What’s a good English?
Please answer the first question and then comment on my strategy to increase my odds. Any comments/suggestions/rants that may be useful are welcome. Your experience is worth a lot and will benefit both me and other readers.

Thanks a lot.