How much of a difference can the so-called "special story" make?

Colleges & Universities Harvard University
1

<p>Alternative title: Another “chance-me” thread?</p>

<p>I’ve asked this before, but I’ve got a more coherent picture of my situation regarding academics in my mind, so I’ll ask again. Also, I decided there’s no need to analyze extraneously, so here’s what I have to say summed up in simple points :P</p>

<ol>
<li><p>My academics are stellar. By stellar I mean that I am estimating my GPA when I apply will be 3.9, my SAT Subject Test Scores (Literature, German, and I might take a science one too, I’ll think about that later) will be about 750 each. Finally, my SAT I composite should be about 2200, maybe decently more. (First take was a 2110, and I’m very confident I can increase it)</p></li>
<li><p>My recommendations will be glowing, and not be just talking about academic skills.</p></li>
<li><p>I do not have any EXTREMELY special talent or activity. I do have a heavy involvement with MUN, in which I’ve received honours, and with my school’s literary magazine, for which I’ll probably be editor-in chief next year.</p></li>
<li><p>My most important activity is, however, theater. I’ve been acting since 2nd grade. It has been a lot of work, but no participation is competitions whatsoever that can with a document “prove” some ability. It is, however, something that after 9 years, I have a lot to say about.</p></li>
<li><p>When I was 9 year old, I had an almost fatal accident when a truck ran over me. Thankfully I survived, losing one arm in the process.</p></li>
<li><p>Despite the difficulties, I succeeded in continuing acting, even though I was only 9 years old at the time. It’s been another 8 years since.</p></li>
</ol>

<p>Well, I could have talked about points 4-6 with endless analysis, so I think presenting them as bullet points helped. Anyways. I realize that 1-3 represent a great amount of the rejected applicant pool: Highly, but not extremely, academically competent, and lacking anything significant to make it stand out. My obvious question is: </p>

<p>How much can 4-6 REALLY make a difference, and help me stand out in an applicant pool of the top schools? Two last details to add to the pile would be:
-I am international.
-I’ve no ethnic hook whatsoever (nor reverse hook)</p>

<p>Any advice would be highly appreciated. Thanks in advance!</p>

2

<p>I think 4-6 can make a lot of difference. You have to have 1-3 to get the door open, but after that’s its convincing someone at the admissions office that you’d be an asset to the campus. My older son, just sold himself as a computer nerd, but he presented himself in a way that I think someone at the admissions office thought was amusing. (His essay began with the results of a computer program that combined sample essays of accepted students.) It’s very hard to predict what will be appealing, but I can guarantee that if you don’t apply you won’t get in.</p>

3

<p>Agreed with mathmom
If you play it to your strengths then there is a great chance of you doing well in the admission process
All the best</p>

4

<p>The critical thing is to make sure the reader of your file in the Admission Office will remember you after reading your application. It will help you to talk more about your passion, not so much about tragedy. You should also consider sending a short video of your performance, something memorable but short (a few minutes long).</p>

5

<p>Thanks a lot for the advice! I’ll do my best.</p>