Hey guy 
I’m currently an incoming freshman at Brooklyn Technical HS in NYC. I know this might be too early to think about colleges but I think I might end up doing something CS related. I know things like CS and engineering in general, the college u go to doesn’t matter much but I REALLY hope that I can land a spot in Cornell. Its my dream school. I know its going to be hard and I probably wouldn’t even make it at the end, but I’m wondering on what should I do to increase my chances in getting in.
I know grades are important for sure. But what exactly is an unweighted and weighted GPA? I’m mean, is weighted only the core classes? If so, is that what Cornell values?
What about AP? BKTECH offers lots of AP clases. But how much should I take? Its not about how much you can take, its about doing well on it right? But I’m worried if I don’t take a lot, it would look bad and will make me look like a unmotivated student.
What clubs should I join? I was thinking about joining robotics next year. But that doesn’t that seem too average? But what about community service? I know people who volunteered at the library and tutoring. But that doesn’t seem to have any to do with what I’m aiming for. Any advice or recommendations on this?
What about internships? Do those count as extracurriculars?
Essays are important but that come later I guess…
And just any advice on HS in general? Any studying tips, especially things like Spanish (not my best subject)
I really hope someone can answer this concerns and would appreciate it you’ can speak from the experience from someone who went Brooklyn Technical Highschool.