<p>I know it’s pretty hard, but HOW hard is it? Right now, I’m 15, and I have a 4.1 GPA (like a 3.6 unweighted, I know 3.7 is the lowest they take, I’m working on getting it up). I haven’t taken any of the entrance tests like SAT, ACT, PSAT, etc…, but I’m starting to study for them. I’m not that great of a test taker. I get pretty good grades, but other kids who I get better grades than, they score better on proficiency tests that we take. </p>
<p>I’m an Eagle Scout and I’m involved in quite a few clubs.</p>
<p>What is the spectrum of people getting the scholly and is the focus more on grades or do they like to see cool or unique ECs?</p>
<p>No, I was just born there, military family (Dad’s retired now though). But I do live in Ohio now. Would that help, being a yankee, get more diversity?</p>
<p>Haha, I don’t think they care about where you’re from…Dayton? My dad was in the military too. My parents are from Hawaii. We used to be stationed in Dayton, OH.</p>
<p>ETA: Okay, I know I said they don’t care, but depending on what the essay questions ask (I don’t know what they are), you can use your military family background to your advantage. I wrote a few essays about how I moved around and was able to get experience with different cultures. <em>shrugs</em></p>
<p>Haha yeah, go air force! I forget sometimes that there are other branches. Almost every time I talk to a military brat, I assume they’re Air Force in my head.</p>
<p>The spectrum is certainly broad. There are fellows with mid 1400 SATs and some with perfect scores. Some with 14+ AP classes and others with only a few, or at least all they could take at their high school. You don’t have to absolutely perfect in everything; I had high test scores and a good personal statement, but only middling ECs and practically no “official” leadership. The average GPA for the fellows last year was 4.17 on UGA’s scale (which adds .5 for each AP class) though, so it can’t hurt to try to boost that. The average Math/Verbal section on the SAT was 1522, so that should give you some idea of the general ability of the class and the competitiveness of the scholarship. </p>
<p>They get 800-900 apps each year and invite 60-70 for interviews (which guarantees you at least the Ramsey). Out of those 60-70 interviewees, 25 or so get the Fellowship. So the odds are pretty tough, but it’s certainly worth it to apply. </p>
<p>You’re at the stage now though where you probably don’t need to worry too much about the FF specifically, but just concentrate on maintaining your grades and staying involved. Relax and enjoy high school while it lasts.</p>