How important are test scores?

thirrdplanet
Sun, 01 Apr 2012 23:20:17 +0000

I have been reading all about Grinnell and it seems perfect for me! That being said, I want to know if I can get in. I’ll explain a little bit about myself. I’m a junior girl from liberal Portland, Oregon! I’m interested in chemistry, biology, environmental sciences, and possible going to medical school. I have a 3.89 UW gpa and 4.08 gpa. I am in the top 5% for weighted gpa and about 15% for unweighted. I play varsity soccer and lacrosse. I’d like to try to play d3 soccer in college. I am involved in band and in our art department. I volunteer several places including Outdoor School (hs students spend a week in the wilderness with 6th graders teaching them about ecology and having them in your cabin. I’ve done in 3 almost 4 times, as you can do it twice a year starting sophomore year), Metro arts (working with 6-12 year olds in an art camp), and I am also an elementary ta for first graders. I am planning to take chemistry and spanish at either Reed, Lewis and Clark, or Portland State through high school programs they each have.

So my worry or frustration with test scores. I got a 177 psat score, not very good! I’d like to consider myself intelligent and the low test scores could be because I have ADHD. It isn’t documented within the school because teachers regurally just give me extra time, so additional accomodations aren’t needed. I just don’t think I will be able to get very high test scores, which seem to be important to Grinnell. Is this the case? If I applied ED (which I wouldn’t until visiting of course) would I have a better chance? My sister got a ACT of 30, which appears even on the low spectrum for this school. I have a huge interest in the school and a good gpa which can’t hurt.

Also, let me know of any additional info about Grinnell you have. If I were to have an overnight visit next year, once I am a senior, would I need to bring one of my parents with me to transport me from the airport and such? Thanks for any help