<p>“Chancing back” has got to be the best example of the blind leading the blind that I’ve ever seen.</p>
<p>In any event, this guy’s a transfer but we don’t really know anything about him. Sophomore or Junior? Do you know that journalism and poli sci are in different schools here (Weinberg vs Medill), and transferring into Medill from outside is considered pretty much impossible (and, unlike for Weinberg, only possible in fall)? What have you done so far at CC? Understand that, in general, a 3.8 at a CC is less difficult to earn than at a 4-year – which means that, like in high school, you’ll need to differentiate yourself some other way. It’s not impossible, but (as with everyone) it’s difficult.</p>
<p>SAT scores would be more helpful if we knew just CR+M, because NU does not care about writing scores (however, your essay should be as spectacular as possible). For example, if your writing sucked as much as mine, that composite score might mask a more impressive math/reading. Since you’re a transfer, and especially if you’re a junior transfer, your SAT matters much less. Don’t retake it unless you really want to.</p>
<p>My recommendation (to, well, anyone, transfers especially) would be to take any energy you would spend trying to get “chanced” and instead focus it towards your research and application. Write your essay however you normally write essays (you want it to sound like you), but then after that take it to as many people as will read it for you and make sure it’s damned impressive.</p>