Realistic schools to apply to?

Question

I'm about to be a senior in HS and am unsure of whether or not I should apply to elite schools. I have a strong academic record (3.95 cumulative GPA) and good test scores (34 ACT/2260 SAT) . I will have taken eight AP tests by the time I graduate, and have scored 5s on the four exams I have already taken. I should be able to get reasonably good letters of recommendation from a few of my teachers. However, I am unsure of the strength of my extracurriculars. I have participated in a few, but not a ton, of community service activities, and have been involved in about five extracurriculars, with smaller leadership positions in a couple (secretary of National Honor Society/copy editor of school newspaper/captain of a team in math club). Is this enough? Would it be worth it for me to spend extra time on money on SAT subject tests to apply to Harvard/Cal Tech/Columbia, etc.?

Answer 1

Honestly, you have absolutely nothing to worry about! Do not stress out. I'd say you can pretty much go wherever you want to go. The 34 alone on the ACT is amazing. Best of luck to you, and again... you are in a very good position to go to any school, so long as you don't slack off too much senior year. Hope this eases your mind a bit- I know it's a stressful time!

Answer 2

I would not worry too much about extra-curriculars. The reality is universities care a lot more about grades and test scores than extra-curriculars. The only time extra-curriculars come into play is if you are a marginal candidate then it might come in to play or if you have done something extraordinary then it could help you get into a better school. Based on your GPA, test scores, and what you have done in all honesty you should be able to get into a top school with very little problem.

Answer 3

holy c**p! do you have a social life!?

talk to your guidance counselor, that's what they're there for...they'll help you decide, and give you questions for any, and i mean ANY question you may have. good luck!