Hi. Currently I'm a sophomore, and I'm perusing to study biology at UVA. UVA is literally my dream school, but I dont even know if I can get in. I need some advice on how I can increase my changes of getting in! Here are my stats.
- I attend one of the top high schools in northern Virginia (in-state)
- I have grades averaging to one or two B's and the rest As and A-s.
- last year GPA was 4.0
- been a varsity tennis athlete since freshman yr
- made it into auditioned district level orchestra
- in JV track, and I am guaranteed for a leadership position in Korean Culture Club and hopefully one in Medical Science Club
- Haven't taken it yet, but scoring for 1500+ SAT score
- Can't this summer, but will be doing bio related internships next summer.
- I'm east asian
Please, please be brutally honest with me! All open to critical criticism :)
First, I want to say that all parts of your application are important. Colleges take a wholistic review of your application so each part is significant: your GPA, course rigor, essays, test scores, and if there's anything else I forgot :)
Here are some stats for UVA:
Acceptance rate: Around 23% (as of 2021)
Average GPA: 4.32 (weighted) on a 4.0 scale
Average SAT score: 1340-1520 (middle 50% range)
Average ACT score: 31-34 (middle 50% range)
To raise your GPA (BTW, having a 4.0 freshman year is a great start-keep it up!) take advanced courses through hs (AP, DE, honors, etc.) This is how you get above 4.0. Staying on top of grades is important- get help immediately whenever you begin to slip lower grades. Addressing it right away helps you get on track sooner and keep that A!
Stay active in ECs! But don't be cramming this here and this there--ALWAYS QUANLITY OVER QUANTITY! I cannot highlight that enough. Fewer ECs requiring more commitment show dedication, passion, and demonstrated interest. Choose ECs you are passionate about! Doing what you love is SO important and shines through in your application.
I recommend taking your 1st SAT fall of junior year. Then you have winter, spring, and even summer to retest as many times as needed. I have a post on the DSAT here: collegevine.com/c/junior/50784/first-usa-dsat-upcoming-plus-incredible-free-study-resources-i-love
Also, you will want to write a killer essay, beginning the summer before senior year (more time=better essay). I have another helpful post on essays here: collegevine.com/c/junior/49537/make-your-essay-stand-out
My advice is to just continue doing what you love and the rest will fall in place. If you are moving towards a career you are passionate about doing the rest of your life, hs becomes the stepping stones to that life calling. Having a greater goal, a bigger picture helps you stay motivated and keep doing your best! Dream big!
Hope this helps! LMK if you have any questions or need any more advice :)
To keep this community safe and supportive: