Smartest Use of ED2 - Vanderbilt, Emory, Wake Forest

College Search & Lists
1

Hello,

I am applying to Vanderbilt, Emory, and Wake Forest.

Thoughts on where my ED2 may give me the most impact? Obviously Vanderbilt is probably the biggest reach for me. I live in the greater Atlanta metro area, so Emory may be tougher for me since I’m considered “local”. Loved Wake and had a great interview. No interview at Vanderbilt/Emory.

Also - my father did his medical fellowship at Emory and worked at the University hospital in the past. Hoping that may give me a legacy bump. It may not, since it was medical fellowship but not his actual M.D.

I’ve learned the hard way not to become too attached to any one school, so truly would be happy to attend any of the 3.

My basic stats:

I’m a female, Georgia, 3.86/4.1, 32 natural (33 super-scored) ACT with strong EC and 2 4-year varsity sports (Captain in both Sr. year), with a national recognition as All American in one of the sports.

Strengths: 33 ACT (super), 2 Sports, Well rounded ECs, Athletic success
Weaknesses: Class Rank - I’m 120 out of 405 at end of 11th. Also, my A’s are lower 91-93 As. I have a few leadership roles, but not as strong as some others I’ve seen

My fall semester GPA was solid - all As with 4 APs. Should bump my overall GPA up. I won’t know how much it effects class rank till early Jan.

Thanks in advance! Happy Holidays and GL to all!

2

I wouldn’t look at the ED process strategically at all because it is completely binding (save for the occasional financial exception). My personal view is that you should only use ED if one school really stands above the rest for you; I think that the fact that you’re saying “I want to ED, but I’m not sure to where” is a pretty clear indication that you should apply RD to all of these and make your college decision in the spring when you are better able to examine each school (admitted student days, etc), compare financial aid offers, and simply give it some more thought. Good luck!

3

I took your advice @mathhappy. Went with RD to all. I’m just ready to put this process behind me!