4 answers
Lin
Student
Castle Rock, Colorado
2
Questions
Asked
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For college admissions, does going to a uncompetitive high school lessen your chances at a T20 college?
Last year I moved schools after my 9th grade year due to personal reasons. The school that I currently go to was closer to my siblings schools and was more convenient for my parents as they both work. This was not the only reason why I moved school as there were a number of factors but the school that I currently go to is significantly less competitive then my last one. The school I currently go to has around 500 students less than my last. I would also say the student bodies themselves are less competitive in general in my current school. I am just wondering whether or not this will go against me during the college application process and whether moving schools was a mistake.
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4 answers
S P
Software Engineer
2
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
S’s Answer
Hi Lin! I'll echo the answers of the other people and say that it shouldn't matter that your school is uncompetitive as long as you have extracurricular activities and the challenging courses you need. If your school doesn't offer that, then your option is to look at online programs that can supplement your learning or looking at community colleges near you and taking courses there as well. If your school has resources, you can try creating clubs that you want to join that your school might not have.
Good luck!
Good luck!
Tammy Prosser
Educator
44
Answers
Buffalo, New York
Updated
Tammy’s Answer
A big factor in college admissions is the weight of the courses you choose to take. Your school may not offer advanced curriculum and AP/college level coursework but colleges will look at what was offered versus what you actually took on your transcript. It won’t be held against you if you don't have a transcript full of high level classes and a resume full of extracurricular if your school doesn’t offer those opportunities. However, you should strive to take the most challenging set of classes that your school does offer. Colleges would rather see that you took a challenging course load over having all As in basic classes. Look for opportunities outside of school to volunteer with local organizations or for a summer internship in your community. Get involved in clubs and/sports at your school. Colleges will look to see that you took advantage of the opportunities you DID have rather than hold it against you for things you were not permitted.
Talk to your school counselor right away and let them know about your future college goals so they can help you map out a challenging set of courses. Even if your high school does not offer college prep opportunities, your school counselor should be aware of other ways for you to build your resume for college and help you prepare.
Lastly, even though many colleges are no longer requiring SAT/ACT testing, it might be to your advantage to prepare for and take these tests as your scores will be away to show colleges that you are prepared. You can always take the tests and then decide whether or not to report your scores.
Talk to your school counselor right away and let them know about your future college goals so they can help you map out a challenging set of courses. Even if your high school does not offer college prep opportunities, your school counselor should be aware of other ways for you to build your resume for college and help you prepare.
Lastly, even though many colleges are no longer requiring SAT/ACT testing, it might be to your advantage to prepare for and take these tests as your scores will be away to show colleges that you are prepared. You can always take the tests and then decide whether or not to report your scores.
Isabel Dominguez
Student
101
Answers
Corning, California
Updated
Isabel’s Answer
Hello Lin!
Don't worry, going to a less competitive high school doesn't automatically reduce your chances of getting into a top 20 college. Admission officers take into account the environment of your school when they review your application. They look at what opportunities were available to you and how you took advantage of them. So, it's important to do your best academically, get involved in extracurricular activities, and highlight your unique skills and experiences. Showing that you can adapt and thrive in your new school environment can actually work in your favor. Remember, changing schools wasn't a wrong move. What really counts in the application process is how you use the opportunities you have now and how you showcase your accomplishments. Keep striving!
Don't worry, going to a less competitive high school doesn't automatically reduce your chances of getting into a top 20 college. Admission officers take into account the environment of your school when they review your application. They look at what opportunities were available to you and how you took advantage of them. So, it's important to do your best academically, get involved in extracurricular activities, and highlight your unique skills and experiences. Showing that you can adapt and thrive in your new school environment can actually work in your favor. Remember, changing schools wasn't a wrong move. What really counts in the application process is how you use the opportunities you have now and how you showcase your accomplishments. Keep striving!
Som Chatterjee
Consultant
17
Answers
Tallahassee, Florida
Updated
Som’s Answer
Hello Lin,
I like the way you think and articulate your thoughts, however I would not worry too much about the competitiveness of the school that you are currently in. Your academic profile, extra-curricular activities, your test scores as well as your college essays provide you with ample opportunities to showcase your strengths and demonstrate how you would fit in a certain school. The fact that you have changed schools shows your resilience and adaptability too. I would suggest that you start thinking about ways that you have or can create an impact in your community - maybe you can be a resource for other students who have similar challenges and start a club that focuses on how best to integrate in the school that you are in. Hope these suggestions help, please feel free to reach out with additional questions.
Best
I like the way you think and articulate your thoughts, however I would not worry too much about the competitiveness of the school that you are currently in. Your academic profile, extra-curricular activities, your test scores as well as your college essays provide you with ample opportunities to showcase your strengths and demonstrate how you would fit in a certain school. The fact that you have changed schools shows your resilience and adaptability too. I would suggest that you start thinking about ways that you have or can create an impact in your community - maybe you can be a resource for other students who have similar challenges and start a club that focuses on how best to integrate in the school that you are in. Hope these suggestions help, please feel free to reach out with additional questions.
Best