<p>I have a few questions about the application process. Stanford, as I understand it, reviews its applicants holistically and that is the only reason that I am applying because any chance is still a chance at getting in. I understand the transfer acceptance rate is >3% but I believe (probably like everyone else applying to stanford) that I offer something unique.</p>
<p>Here is some background that I believe may give me a chance:
-4.0 at my community college. I will have completed all math/science/chemistry courses along with General Ed. I am finishing up a 22 unit semester in the next week. I plan to take 26 units next semester. Not counting this semester I have taken more than 60+ units in the first year.
-I am a member of a club that pushes undocumented students to pursue a higher education.
-I graduated highschool with ~2.5 GPA but heres a twist. The reason why I did poorly in highschool was because I was heavily involved in auto mechanics and became proficient enough to take a car apart and put it back together. In addition to all the “hands on” experience I got from that, I installed biofuel kits on diesel VW cars which is why I want to get involved in Energy Resources Engineering. In other words it allowed people to drive their cars on vegetable oil.
-I worked many part time jobs while going to school.</p>
<p>Basically all I want to know is if I have a chance or will they see my highschool transcript and not even bother sending back a rejection letter. My counselor told me I may have a chance and it was her idea but I think it was a bogus suggestion so that’s why I am asking for some objective advice. If there is any chance at all; that would be enough for me to fork out the 90$ for the application fee.</p>
<p>Your profile is very compelling, and I can see the combination of your passion for auto mechanics and fascination with biofuel coming together into a beautiful essay.</p>
<p>You certainly do have a chance at Stanford, although I wouldn’t bank on getting in (which no one should, really). I don’t know what the interview process is like for transfers. Rather than worrying about that, I would focus your energy on writing the best essays you possibly can and choosing recommenders to portray you in the best possible light. Best of luck!</p>
<p>You have the raw materials for a solid application. Definitely take either the SAT or the ACT (I preferred the ACT) as soon as possible. There is no interview process.</p>
<p>RedEye…first, the bad news…last year’s transfer rate was a dismal 1.98%…</p>
<p>…but, having said that…historically, Stanford likes to give SECOND chances to students from community college, military, and non-traditional students who think outside the box to bring something “fresh” and “new” to the Stanford community…</p>
<p>…the good news…you represent a very interesting candidate with both non-traditional and community college background…who may bring something “fresh” and “outside the box thinking” to the Stanford community…that they prize so much…</p>
<p>…how you tell your story in your essays may make the difference…good luck!</p>
<p>Turns out I missed my chance to take the SAT. For some reason its required for transfer students. My counselor called and asked. … If I don’t get into any of my select colleges this year I will try again next year. Thanks for the helpful advice.</p>