Hi,
I am currently a Junior in high school and am looking to apply to Ivy League schools for maths.
I am an international US citizen currently studying the IB course, taking HL maths (I would perhaps take further maths but my school does not provide this).
My current plan involves getting 7 in HL maths (obviously), taking AP calculus BC and AP statistics exam in may outside of school as well as retaking my SAT I (got 2220 in my freshman year, not impressed). On top of this I am writing a research paper. (of course, the usefulness of a research paper is very subjective and dependent on where it is published)
What can I do to maximise my chances? Specifically looking at mathematics, statistics to be exact.
The individual colleges’ admissions criteria best describe what they’re looking for. Your asking random internet strangers for their opinions on what the “formula” will get you a mixed bag.
However this: “I got 2220 in my freshman year, not impressed” needs to be dropped. You’re a math/stats person – what is the percentile rate of a 2220 SAT? Drop the “not impressed” line – it makes people roll their eyes and immediately take a disliking to you.
“What can I do to maximise my chances? Specifically looking at mathematics, statistics to be exact.”
To answer your question in terms of numbers, score as high as possible on whatever relevant test you plan to take. As a stats person, you should be able figure out some approximate chances given those grades. Beyond that, who knows?
The Ivies/equivalents admit holistically.
However, winning some major award or publishing in a journal should help.
Agree that “got 2220 in my freshman year, not impressed” is bragging and shows low social awareness. However, assuming you are actually a nice person most of the time, the other things you can do are:
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have a serious talk with your parents about what your family can afford, their expectations financial and otherwise, and what they see as potentially your best fits. Best to get all this out on the table as soon as possible so you have realistic expectations.
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Get to know some teachers well, especially those in math/stats this year. You want them to be able to articulate why the school should want you and not all the other smart, accomplished and socially aware potential math majors.
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Besides research, find at least one interest in your life that you can talk about with some degree of passion and expertise. Preferably something that demonstrates your ability to contribute to the community and connect with other people.
Lots of kids applying to Ivies have rigorous schedules and high test scores. You know what adcoms in Cambridge and New Haven really like to see? A likeable kid. Saying that you “got 2220 in my freshman year, not impressed” (which, by the way, is in the 98th or 99th percentile) isn’t making you look too likable. Work on your attitude. Beyond that, keep taking difficult math courses, and try to get that research paper of yours published somewhere significant.
sigh Yeah sorry about that, I apologize, I didn’t mean to come off as a bit of a jerk. It was definitely unwarranted.