What can I do to get into Berkeley?

Question

I'm officially a junior now. I have decent grades, but I'm lacking in extracurricular activities. Is it too late to start volunteering and still get in? I'm really determined to into Berkeley (not through transferring however). The only things I can think of "special" about me is passing the Japanese Language Proficiency Test and helping take care of my now 6-year-old cousins. I don't know if this will help give me an advantage, but I live about an hour away from Berkeley and I'm a first-generation student from a low income family.

I hope there's someone out there like me who got in despite the lateness...

I'm not looking for general answers like "Do extracurricular activities." I need examples. I want to make this summer very constructive.

Please help me! I'm a willing student and I've changed a lot (I used to be the "loner" in elementary & middle school.). I've become more confident lately.

Answer 1

If you had to devote a certain amount of time each week to take care of your cousins and it was an obligation that you cannot otherwise avoid, then you can count that as an extracurricular activity. Generally, needing to work or babysit to help out your family can be considered as extracurricular activity in certain situations (for example, your parents are each holding three jobs).

You missed the registration deadlines (usually February-April) for most organized summer extracurricular activities. You can probably still find volunteer opportunities at your local charity organizations or organize your own volunteer activities (for example, beach clean up). You can see a list of volunteer opportunities I've compiled here: http://ucadmissions.livejournal.com/1963.html

Don't despair, you still have your junior year and the summer after to catch up with your extracurricular activities.

Answer 2

I got into Berkeley (although I chose not to go). Thinking about what I was told were my best assets:

- Good grades, but not necessarily perfect. I had 1 C and a few Bs here and there. That being said, anything less than a 3.0 will have to be overcome elsewhere by something spectacular. It's also important to show you enjoy being challenged; take higher level math, writing classes, upper-level chemistry and biology, anything you enjoy but that is challenging! Don't "cop out" with too much Art or Shop-type classes!

- SAT scores are very important. Again, I did well, but not perfect (1300 out of 1600 in the old system, I don't know what that is now). You must do well on this!

- Extra curicular activities: I had a total of 5, one sport, one academic, one volunteer-related (and I also volunteered on my own) and 2 performing-arts related. Only one of which I started as late as my junior year, so that might be a problem for you. Just do what makes you happy; even if its one activity, go for a leadership role or give it a lot of attention and time.

Worst thing that you said is that you don't think of yourself as "special." If you don't see it in you, the admissions committees won't see it in you either. Think about what sets you apart (speaking Japanese is very interesting and a very dificult thing to accomplish! Don't undervalue yourself!). Show your specialness in your essays and be positive.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Extracurricular activities are important but UCB is not going to reject you just because you don't have much of that. You don't need at least a 4.5 to be accepted. I had a 4.17, didn't do much of clubs and volunteering and I was able to get in.

I think if you feel that you are not "special" enough or lacking in certain areas and achievement, then you should try to stand out in other ways. For the last two years of my high school career, I worked for my family business almost full time. I discussed the circumstances and my experiences extensively in my essay, and I think that was one of the very main factors of my acceptance. So pick something in your life that is "special" or something that sets you apart from everyone else. To be honest, almost most college oriented students out there have a list of awards and ec, they don't necessarily make someone stand out anymore. Undeniably, it's always good to have them, but don't feel that just because you lack them, you are out. In your case, I think it would really help if you focus more on your essay, a place where you can speak about yourself and your unique qualities.

I'm not an expert at this by any means, but I understand how nerve-whacking it can be when you feel like everyone else is ahead of you, so feel free to send me a message if you would like to discuss this topic a little more in depth.

Answer 4

Fall 2006 Freshman Profile* Average SAT I scores (middle 50%) Reading: 580-710 Math: 620-740 Writing: 590-710 Average unweighted GPA 3.83 Average weighted GPA 4.26 Looks possible, other stats on the page list that about 25% of people who apply are accepted. Regardless, if you're this close and don't make the cut, you can enroll in one or two classes and then apply for a program. I wish someone had told me that when I didn't get into my school of choice. Added bonus, you'd be closer to resident tuition...Local and national scholarships don't hurt either...

Answer 5

It's not so much about what you do but who you benefit.

If you work with terminally ill children, that will look good on your application (because it really is good) but compared to working at an Adult Learning center teaching adults to read...that would look better because that person will be able to use what you have taught them to better themselves and their community.

(I know it doesn't seem right, but that's the way it is)

Working in a soup kitchen is also another noble activity, but compared to volunteering to help out in the construction of a playground at a public park. that carries more weight because it serves many people in different ways rather than just to serve as a means to an end.

That's not to say that you should shy away from helping out at a children's hospital or working a soup kitchen because those are all noble undertakings. Universities, especially more liberal universities such as Berkeley, like to see activities that serve the greatest good for the greatest number of people.

In other words, if you can help people to help themselves, you will gain more ground in the admissions office.

Answer 6

Keep studying. It's never too late to start volunteering, just be sure to pick something you actually care about and enjoy! Admissions counselors have been doing what they do for years, so they can tell when someone is not being sincere. They like volunteering because it gives you a great, well-rounded experience if you do it for the right reasons.

Answer 7

I agree with the first answerer. Connect with some alumni from Berkeley. There may be graduates who live in your area.

Do a google search. Or, call Berkeley and ask them for names of people who are willing to be contacted in your area.

Answer 8

Go to collegeconfidential.com and ask students from berkley what you need to get in. It is the best place to ask questions.
You will find a discussion board that it is just for berkley. Good luck!!

Answer 9

You are gonna need at the very LEAST a 4.5 and you are gonna need to be involved in clubs, and do a ton of volunteer work.

Answer 10

study hard and find a willing benefactor alumnus willing to contribute on your behalf.