Freshman (Class of 2019) coming from poverty school and wants to attend an Ivy League school

Pre-College Topics High School Cafe
1

It appears I need some advice from you guys to get a hold of this hectic business. I want to get into an Ivy League school (I am in the U.S.) but I am currently forced to attend a poor school. Nothing concerns me more than the requirement of “extracurricular distinction and awards.” What exactly does this mean? Do I need to pass a national test? To what degree of significance must my distinction exert in an extracurricular activity? Where can I find a list of programs/opportunities to gain these awards? How many awards do I need to obtain?

I am interested in philosophy and mathematics if that helps.

Thanks for the help. :slight_smile:

2

They are looking for commitment, leadership, and high level of achievement in your area(s) of interest. That could be anything. There is no checklist or required number of awards. Not sure about philosophy but students with a particular interest in math often participate in math competitions or do a math-oriented science fair project. Really you need to take initiative and do some research on what opportunities are available at your school, in your community, on the web, etc.

Going to a “poor school” isn’t necessarily a disadvantage in this respect. The admission system is set up to try to identify students who make the most of what is available to them, and it may be easier for a strong student to stand out or be a leader when they aren’t competing with a lot of other like-minded students.

3

For math, there are also many opportunities on the web to go beyond what your school offers. There are many MOOCs available, and there are also some sites such as Art of Problem solving where you can develop skills.

4

My plan is:

  1. succeeding the Latin National Exam and joining the Latin Honors Society - studying the Latin language would allow reading many books of philosophy.

  2. succeeding the Science Olympiad

  3. succeeding the U.S. Mathematical Olympiad and AIME

  4. exhausting local opportunities

How does that sound? Also, you appear to be someone interested in mathematics, so would mastery of the “Art of Problem Solving” series be sufficient to pass these mathematics exams? If not, what would be? Thanks.

5

Right now, your main focus should be on getting amazing grades. Study hard, and challenge yourself. With Extracurriculars, you’re only a freshman, just have a “feel” at how the clubs are before plunging into them. Good luck!