I was wondering if it was possible to get into a good school (specifically Bowdoin) if my extracurriculars are underwhelming. During my sophomore year, I had several medical issues that made it unsafe for me to be unsupervised for long periods of time. However, I was still able to use a computer so I taught myself how to code and took up creative writing. (Some of my stories have been published in regional magazines/won awards, if that makes a difference.) I have since made an almost full recovery. In junior year I got a part time job, recommenced volunteering and started a film club at my school while continuing to write. My grades are decent (3.9 unweighted GPA). Would it still be possible for me to get into a good school?
Based on what you’ve said – which is admittedly quite brief – I’d say your chances of getting into a good school are just fine. Realize of course that it’s quite difficult to get into many of the very top schools. But from what you say, it sounds like your ECs are fine. For example, having been published and winning awards for your writing is quite good.
Perhaps it would even be possible to mention the medical issues you had, how they made it difficult for you to do some activities, how you dealt with it, got past it. But be careful that you do it in the right way (e.g., don’t complain about it, dwell on, or use it as an excuse).
Your high school counselor should mention your issues in the letter of rec. What’s a goood school? Spend enough time on this site and you will see that plenty of reguslr students get into plenty of good schools with seemingly ordinary ECs. Do your best in school and do what you are interested in. You will go where you are meant to go.
It depends on the school. Some great school barely glance at the ECs, and some schools really care. They are such a small component. If a student isn’t competitive in academics and their essays are flukes, ECs will hardly ever save them. That is why you see so many students with average ECs get into top colleges, their strengths shined elsewhere.
Agree with the above – it would be helpful if your guidance counselor noted your medical issues in his/her recommendation along with stating that you have made a full recovery. As I’d tell anyone, it is important to cast a wide net and apply to a good mix of reach, match, and safety schools that you would be happy to attend and that appear affordable (with an acceptance rate hovering around 14% I’d consider Bowdin to be a reach for most anyone).
Good luck.