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So I visited both Columbia and Barnard and I love them both. As of now, they are my two favorite schools, with Columbia being first because I'm not completely positive with the idea of an all-girls' school. I was planning on applying to Columbia ED, but I'm afraid if I get rejected, I won't be able to suck it up and apply and possibly attend Barnard. Am I being ridiculous? Should I not apply to my top choice because of fear of rejection and just apply to number two?

My stats:
White girl from Northeast
SAT I: 760v/700m (first time)
SAT II's: took U.S. History and Bio (didn't get scores back yet), will take Writing and Lit
GPA: 3.9ish on a 4.0 scale
Taking toughest classes in competitive school
Will have 7 AP's by graduation
National Merit Scholarship High Scorer
French National Honor Society
National Honor Society
Track/Cross Country- 3 seasons, all 4 years (but I'm not particularly good, just passionate)
Work experience
Editor on school paper
Secretary of temple youth group (hospital volunteer with them)
Peer leader at temple
Key Club, French Club
Co-founder of Cancer Club
Strong summer programs (i.e. volunteering on Hopi reservation, camp CIT)
Practice yoga (another passion)

What do you think?

By Elleneast (Elleneast) on Sunday, June 13, 2004 - 10:16 am: Edit

I don't usually jump into these "what do you think?" posts but if I were you I would apply ED to Columbia. Your academic backround is fine. Statistically, Columbia is a reach for everyone but the ED round will give you a better shot. If it doesn't work out you can apply to Barnard in the regular round. Columbia is a fabulous school (at least my daughter thinks so) but Barnard is a good school as well and will give you an almost identical experience if you want it to.

During my daughter's application process it became very clear that the essay matters at Columbia. According to my daughter's GC, the adcom commented how much she/he liked it and the entire application "package". Also, your essay doesn't have to be about this but in some way I would make it very clear why you want to go to Columbia specifically and why being in NYC will enhance your education.

Best of luck.

By Edmoney (Edmoney) on Sunday, June 13, 2004 - 11:45 am: Edit

Apply to Columbia ED.