What are my chances?

Question

I have a 3.85 GPA.
A low SAT score 1870 aiming for a 2100.

I have many Extracurriculars.

Mock Trial captain
Football
Taek won do
First Aid, soon to be an EMT
A lot of school stuff

My dream school is DUKE or Johns Hopkins

But I can get a full ride at Hampton, Howard, and Rutgers

I also want to go to Vanderbilt or Wake Forest.

Answer 1

I went to Wake Forest (so I'm biased against Duke! ;). I'm not an admissions counselor, mind you, but you should at least apply to the schools of your choice. There are so many good students out there that sometimes admissions is the luck of the draw. But don't let that discourage you.

Most importantly, make sure your references are good, that your essay is stellar, and that you keep up your good grades. Someone with great SAT scores but who has crappy grades, that shows how willing they are to work, doesn't it? But on the other hand, if you are a well-rounded individual with great grades and a decent SAT, then you shouldn't be worried.

If you're really set on Duke, then try applying early admissions. It shows them you're really set on going there. That's what I did and I knew where I would be going to college by December of senior year. It takes a lot of pressure off the last semester of high school.

The schools where you can get a full ride are all good schools too so don't overlook that.

Answer 2

Rutgers has the national reputation (e.g., great school, solid academics, top 20 spot) and with a full ride... its a decision that can effect you for rest of life $$$$$$$$$. If money is object take the ride. Rutgers is a top seeded university. Not that the others can't help or be good... but, you'll have to make a decision before time closes some door.

Answer 3

Take the full rides.

Answer 4

No way...go join the military