Should I even consider Caltech as a possible college to apply to?

mazewanderer
Sat, 30 Jul 2011 12:57:41 +0000

I assume the two threads I recommend everyone read, if not follow this link which will show you the two threads.

http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/california-institute-technology/1182824-suugest-reading-two-threads-before-you-post-chance-me-caltech-type-request.html

I think the question you are asking is “I may not have much to show in the form of math and science activities such as reserach project etc., so should I even apply?”

Passion can be shown in many ways. You may not have the had the opportunity for summer reserach as you may have to earn during the summer. Your school may not have many clubs etc. If you had the opportunity and did not take them, it is going to be difficult but not impossible to show your passion for math and science in say your essay. If you did not have the opportunities, you need to show what you made of the little opportunities you had.

So you would have to decide for your self if you can make a case for your lack of actual activities. There are students who do not have the math and science credentials yet get into Caltech. They are to able to convey their passion in a different way. May be an essay on how their music activities gives them an insight into scientific method etc. Your creativity is the key. Computer programming would be a great example. For example, "I was interested in computers and taught myself programming in C++ "

Again, if you have high financial needs, you need to have a set schools based on reach, match and financial safety. You need to look at it holistically and for example if you have limited money, you might not want to do both MIT and Caltech, instead chose one. I am suggesting options, not telling you what to do. Look at all the colleges on your list and then come up with a set of choices.