<p>I’m 14, a 9th grader and I’m interested in applying to boarding schools (specifically, Exeter, Middlesex and Deerfield) for the school year of 2010-2011. I’m diverse, bilingual in English and Mandarin (also, the best in French in my year) and I have excellent grades, a really impressive community & service track record (check my other posts if you want) and 99 percentile SSATs but the only thing is, other than writing and dance, I don’t have many especially distinguishing talents. </p>
<p>I live in Hong Kong and I was wondering: If I start playing a Chinese instrument, would this make me stand out more to boarding schools? I know they aren’t very commonplace in the states.</p>
<p>I know it’s a little late now, but hey, I can harness this for college if I don’t get into BS now.</p>
<p>Any answers would be appreciated (: </p>
<p>ALSO: Is it true that getting a 99th % score on the SSATs pretty much makes admissions a hell of a lot easier?</p>
<p>Hi StacyR. I think you sound like a wonderful candidate for a US boarding school. Personally, I would never advise taking up any activity for the sole purpose of a school application. Your time is way too precious - engage in activities that truly interest you. In addition, I think your Hong Kong residency sets you apart and your other stats sound outstanding.<br>
I can’t give you any definitive advice on the SSAT - my daughter had comprable scores and I was told by a very good source that SSAT’s are the last thing the committees focus on. So who knows - my conclusion is that it certainly can’t hurt to have these scores, but be sure to highlight your other strengths as well. Best of Luck to you!!</p>
<p>It won’t help you out that much since you don’t show long term commitment to it.</p>
<p>Of course, it is somewhat unique and will help you a little, but it’s not worth the time right now…spend it bettering your current EC’s, which in my opinion, are EXTREMELY well rounded. :)</p>
<p>Thank you all so much for your insight! I apologize for not being able to post earlier on, I’ve been pretty busy, and my SSATs are tomorrow, so wish me luck? Thank you again!!</p>
Thank you again!!</p>