Need help with finding good matches, dream schools

ecoaz
Tue, 16 Sep 2008 19:36:37 +0000

Live in Arizona
High school senior
GPA=3.8 unweighted; GPA weighted 4.2
SAT (6/08) = CR 580, Math 600, Writing 500
SAT (5/08) = CR 560, Math 580, Writing 570
Exceeded all AZ AIMS tests = Arizona state tuition waiver
Legacy Northwestern
Undeclared major, but leaning toward science/health
Family has no college nest egg; will apply for aid

National Honor Society; freshman mentoring program; Women Scholars; community service; newspaper staff two years.
Haven’t been involved in more activities, athletic, or music due to family illness and resulting circumstances and responsibilities at home. No formal job experience outside babysitting.

AP Euro History (A in course as soph; 1 on test=shocked)
AP Calculus (?)
AP Biology (?)
All Honors courses when offered in all other areas.
Straight A’s junior year and one semester soph year, no grades lower than B. GPA unweighted 3.8.

I’ve been accepted at all three in-state schools, but they’re party schools with easy admission; waiting for scholarship offers from these schools.

I’m not a fan of California and I’m concerned how much travel will add to my college costs if I fly out of state elsewhere. Surrounding states don’t seem to offer any more challenging opportunities, unless I’m mistaken. I’ve already taken the SAT twice and haven’t taken subject tests. With my average testing profile, are the in-state schools my best hope or can you suggest some interesting matches and dream schools out of state as well? Our in-state schools have good programs, but AZ is known as party country and I want a great education.

Thanks for any suggestions!