<p>I am so nervous… So basically after I receive my A level results for History, Economics and Government and Politics in August, I am looking to apply to Yale.</p>
<p>I am kind of nervous… My ECs are not spectacular, I do volunteer work for my local museum: Transcribing documents to be put into locally published books, I put together a small exhibition on a prison in Norman Cross during the Napoleonic war and one on the slave trade, Created a database on items belonging to the museum, helped organize education classes for smaller infants, Been on the local radio station to promote exhibitions.</p>
<p>I swim and I have my Level 10 badge and I work at my local supermarket.</p>
<p>I am thinking against it now because of my sucky ECs and finances.</p>
<p>I think your ECs are just spectacular and out of the ordinary. I wouldn’t be discouraged in submitting an application. Also, Yale’s undergraduate financial aid policy is one of the best in the world, not just for its domestic applicants but for internationals as well. There is absolutely no reason you should hesitate because of your financial situation.</p>
<p>The museum work is quite interesting. You probably won’t have enough room to do it justice in the EC section of the Common App so I would suggest you elaborate on it in the “Additional Information” you can add. Be sure to mention your employment, too . Do not underrate this: a student working for a living (even a partial living) is always admired.</p>
<p>The swimming doesn’t translate well as presented: does it mean a competitive level of achievement? Lifesaving training? (And if so, have you been a life guard?). Mention these, if applicable.</p>
<p>Be sure to schedule your SAT or ACT. If you take the SAT, be sure to take at least two SAT Subject tests, too.</p>
<p>Your finances should not matter-Yale is need-blind for international students and meets 100% of your need (generously determined compared to most schools) if they admit you. Focus on presenting the best application possible.</p>
<p>Your volunteer work at the museum sounds excellent-it involves real skills and significant experience. You will need to explain more about the swimming, because a “Level 10 Badge” is not something we have here in the US, so it won’t be something an admissions officer would understand without the specifics. </p>
<p>Your part-time job is very worth mentioning. Explain how many hours per week you work and what your job responsibilities are. </p>
<p>You need to realize that many American students do not have significant volunteer experiences in addition to a paying job and excellent grades and test scores! That is a lot to manage responsibly and shows a lot of maturity and achievement on your part.</p>
<p>Your museum work might be a fantastic topic for your essay-to demonstrate your commitment to volunteering and especially your interest in history way above and beyond what is taught in the classroom.</p>
<p>You will be a strong candidate-keep the faith!</p>