Should I even consider Brown? Stats WAY below average

BrownAlumParent
Fri, 04 Nov 2011 17:56:59 +0000

Brown, in my opinion even more so than other schools in its level/tier, does give students like you a second look, or a possible “take a risk” look in admissions. It’s not because of the “poor me” or pity party stories, but rather when those students demonstrate that they have the ability and gumption to turn things around for themselves and the determination to do well and take charge of their own academic destiny and future success. So I would not tell you to “give up” as yet. But I would offer some advice, of things that in my opinion might be important/helpful, whether for Brown, or any school you might be applying to.

1. As you stated, you are aware that you really need “straight” As at this point to consider Brown etc. I would not recommend taking the extra on-line courses, unless you are sure you can handle your in school classes and get those grades, and secondly any ECs you feel are important to participate in at the level of true commitment and hopefully leadership. Quantity counts less than quality.

2. I don’t see calculus in your course list. Brown really wants to see the most rigorous curriculum you can take at your school, including calculus. they might overlook this for someone wanting to major in art or theater etc, but less likely to for econ. Maybe you can take a prelim class this summer that would make you feel comfortable with taking it senior year, or get a catch up math tutoring after school this year to make you a stronger math student?

3. Apply regular decision. You will need to do that to compare financial aid from schools, but for you the first semester of senior year As will also be important.

4. Another summer activity to consider would be the summer courses at Brown or a similar school (and there is financial aid available) This would be another demonstration of your ability to handle college level classes at this level and also possibly another place for a letter of rec if you do well.

5. Do the very best to prep and study for your SATs etc. Even if this means studying on your own with books, sample tests. (see CC threads re this) Even better to get some prep classes etc. if you can through your school. While some argue that this inflates the scores and makes them less a bench mark for your ability, (if these tests can do that), all the prep school students have this advantage, so why shouldn’t you? And these test scores are going to be an extra bit more important for you if you are “reaching”.

Some schools you might want to look at that should be interesting for you,and a bit easier reach might include:
Gillford in NC
Earlham in Indiana
Kenyon in Ohio
Clark in MA
Bryn Mawr (prob still in high reach) and Haverford in PA
Good luck and STUDY HARD!