Click here to go to the NEW College Discussion Forum

Male, Asian/White, Virginian Residency
GPA: 2.8
SAT: 1270 (630V)
School: 9th-11th, well-regarded international private school; 12th, DODDs school (basically equivalent to an average public)
ECs: Band (if that counts) for 4 years. participated in several honor bands.
AP Stats- 3
Currently taking AP Gov't/Poli

I’m sort've clueless as to what I’d like to major in, but I guess I’d say I’m leaning a little towards something math-related.

What are my chances at these schools?
Virginia Tech, Univ. of Mary Washington, James Madison, George Mason, and Virginia Commonwealth

Any recommendations on how to improve my chances at these schools? Should I retake the SAT? Old school didn't rank, new one DOES. Any way to somehow not receive one? (since I will only have been at the school for a semester by the time I apply). Any other advice/comments? I'm sure I've forgotten something...Oh well, thanks in advance.

By Pattykk (Pattykk) on Tuesday, September 28, 2004 - 09:22 am: Edit

I heartily recommend James Madison University. My niece is a sophomore math major there. She absolutely loves the math department and is very happy with the student life. It is a beautiful campus, and the students are happy. You would be well above their average SAT of 1167.
Mary Washington is a great college, but the math department is small. Their average SAT is 1208.
Tech has an excellent math department, but you should retake the SAT for them. Their average is 1250, and you would want to be above average when applying. Your GPA would hurt a little there. It is larger than James Madison, but it also has a lovely campus in the country and happy students.
If you are Republican or like the monied crowd, Randolph Macon College has a good math department, and their average SAT is 1105. Heavy drinkers in my time.
George Mason is in a different category. It is in the suburbs of D.C., and it has a very diverse student body. You might feel comfortable there, since you have a military background, and there are a lot of military in the area. On the other hand, the school has a lot of commuters and a mixed bag of professors--some are experts in their fields, and others are so-so.
Have you looked at the Princeton Review of colleges online? It will give you the basics on your schools. You might also look at the Rugg book regarding math departments.
Best of luck. I would work hard to try to boost your GPA, and I would try to think of other EC's you have pursued (church? scouts? volunteering? particular music passion?)Emphasize your desire to attend the particular schools you choose.

By Pattykk (Pattykk) on Tuesday, September 28, 2004 - 10:49 am: Edit

For more carnal considerations, James Madison has fabulous food, including a sit-down service restaurant and places that serve smoothies, sushi,and other delectables. Va Tech also has great food. The girls are very pretty at JMU.

By Vapajude87 (Vapajude87) on Tuesday, September 28, 2004 - 08:36 pm: Edit

Thanks for the info, pattykk.

Yeah, I've heard a lot about how good JMU's food is-- lol, what's the deal with that?!

You mention that I should boost my GPA, and I totally agree, but only mention that it would hurt my chances at VTech and not at the other schools-- really? I thought my GPA was considerably below average for most of these colleges. (Also, are you saying they treat SAT scores and GPA equally? i.e, high SAT can make up for low GPA?)

Anyone else?

By Hokie_2004 (Hokie_2004) on Tuesday, September 28, 2004 - 10:31 pm: Edit

I go to VCU right now and i wouldnt recomend it. Professors arent very helpful,or atleast mine arent, the area is very dirty and poor. Its also very dangerous, we've had two meetings in my dorm so far about people being mugged. But if you can get past that its a good school for medical things and that kind of stuff.

By Pattykk (Pattykk) on Tuesday, September 28, 2004 - 11:18 pm: Edit

It would be good to get the GPA up in general. A high SAT does not make up for a low GPA, because admissions will wonder if you are working up to your potential. What caused the low GPA? Extra tough courses, personal problems, moves?

I attended VCU, and I agree it is not as nice as the other schools, particularly in the less-than-helpful professor department. Give the neighborhood a chance. I remember some nice, cheap restaurants and a good movie theater.There is a lot of history in the neighborhood. Stroll down Monument Avenue, visit the parks and museums. Full of fun old fogey ideas, aren't I? I am sure you need to be street smart now, though, because it was a little bit rough even in my day back in the '70's. It is a crying shame that the downtown shopping area near the medical center has been abandoned. It had some lovely department stores and was a vibrant area in its time. Anyway, as you say, there are good departments, such as the fine arts and medical fields, and the professors will help if you pin them down. Do your best to enjoy the time you are there.

By Vapajude87 (Vapajude87) on Wednesday, September 29, 2004 - 01:11 am: Edit

Okay, but you don't think the GPA as it is now will be a SERIOUS disadvantage? You make it seem as if it's no big deal. Please correct me if I'm getting the wrong idea...

Low GPA is the result of several things, but probably caused mostly by overblown personal problems and laziness. The whole thing is kind of complicated, but ultimately, it's my fault that I have such a poor gpa. Definitely not worth whining to colleges about.

I visited VCU this past summer and yeah, I wasn't greatly impressed. I agree that it doesn't give off the most comforting atmosphere, but I mean, I wouldn't say I hate the school (if I did, I wouldn't apply); it's just not as appealing as I previously thought.

By Pamvanw (Pamvanw) on Wednesday, September 29, 2004 - 07:52 am: Edit

I think the GPA is a big problem, & if your SAT would be any higher it would be worse because it would confirm a lack of motivation. Do you show an upward trend in grades? When we visited VT the admissions office specifically said "no C's" but then we were at an engineering presentation.

By Vapajude87 (Vapajude87) on Wednesday, September 29, 2004 - 10:15 pm: Edit

Pamvanw,
So big that I shouldn't consider some of the schools?

Technically, there is in upward trend in GPA from sophomore year up, but it's barely noticeable. The grades, however, are kind of all over the place.

No C's at all? That seems kind of harsh. Oh well-I think I'll just apply to the business school... I've heard good things about VCU's engineering program. Could I get into that? They don't have the same rules regarding GPA as VTech,do they??

And to anyone, what about SAT IIs? All of the schools RECOMMEND it. Does that mean I should take them? I honestly don't think I would do well on them, especially the writing. I don't know which schools use it as a placement test for classes and which use it as a part of the application. Anyone know? There really aren't too many opportunities left for taking SATs/SAT IIs (and the deadline for the Nov. one is like in 2 days, right?). So the big question: Considering everything, which tests should I take? SAT, SAT IIs (and which ones?), or both (one in Nov., the other in Dec.)?

I already understand that this procrastination is entirely my fault, so no need to mention it in your replies. I'm just trying to get any advice I can (since my counselor and parents are utterly useless!).

Thanks.

By Vbtwins (Vbtwins) on Thursday, September 30, 2004 - 07:25 am: Edit

Have you visited the University of Mary Washington? We were very impressed. I think the fact that you are a male will make your chances very good to get in. It's a beautiful school with a wonderful reputation. Another "up and coming" VA public is Christopher Newport. Our guidance councelor spoke very highly of this school. Granted Newport News is not the best place for college fun.......but I understand that it is a great school. Also, depending on the numbers this year, you have a good shot at JMU too. Good luck.

By Vapajude87 (Vapajude87) on Friday, October 01, 2004 - 12:31 am: Edit

Actually, I just visited the school this past summer. I, too, was very impressed and can say that I underestimated it in every single way. In the end, I'm so glad I decided to visit it; the experience completely reversed my perception of the school. In fact, I think my sister, (who will be considering higher caliber schools, like C of W&M, U of Penn.)to her own surprise, has decided she will definitely apply to it as a safety. Anyway, do you really believe that the low proportion of males gives me that much of an edge? I thought it would help a little (one reason why I'm applying), but not THAT much.

By Vbtwins (Vbtwins) on Friday, October 01, 2004 - 07:31 am: Edit

Vapajude87: Yes I do believe that the ratio of females to males will give you an advantage at The University of Mary Washington. This university is considered one of VA public's "best kept secrets". You are in state, a good student and have been in a challenging curriculum. I think your chances are very good. My son was invited to UMW and if he decides to go there, would qualify for merit scholarships as he is a very good student and UMW would indeed be a safety school for him. His twin brothers' scores, class rank, and GPA are lower, similar to yours----I am trying to convince him to consider Mary Washington because I do believe he will have a good chance there. It is a wonderful school. I was amazed at how beautiful the campus is, and all the school had to offer. We were surprised at how much we liked it. I wouldn't be surprised if my son with the very good stats ends up choosing this school. He is also interested in William and Mary, and UVA. Best of luck to you. You will be fine.

By Wallingf (Wallingf) on Friday, October 01, 2004 - 04:39 pm: Edit

My daughter also looked at VCU, JMU and VT (out-of-state). Her stats are 4.3 weighted GPA, 3.7 unweighted. SAT 1100, but hope to raise to 1150+ in Oct.

I considered VCU a safety for her and would suspect it would be for you also. I think JMU and VT are reaches for her, because of her SAT. Your SAT should be fine for both schools - but I think your GPA WILL hurt you. From what I have heard, JMU and VT don't generally like anything below a 3.0. A strong GPA can help a low SAT, but not vice versa. Most admissions counselors will tell you that.

But, I would tell you the same thing I told my daughter - if you really like the school, apply there and write a killer essay (for JMU). For VT, they give you a place to tell them anything you want about your "personal" situation. You can use theat to plead your case.

Good Luck!

By Vapajude87 (Vapajude87) on Friday, October 01, 2004 - 10:15 pm: Edit

Yeah, when visiting the colleges, looking through the brouchers, etc., I also got the impression that a lot of these schools don't like anything below a 3.0. It would be so frustrating to know that I was denied acceptance to them just because I didn't meet the "minimum" GPA... We'll see what happens.

Thanks for all the advice, guys. Really appreciate it. Just one more important question I can think of:
Like I mentioned in my 1st post, I'm attending a different school for my senior year. Due to different grad. requirements and limited class offerings, I'm worried that my senior year schedule might seem a bit weak for the SCHOOLS I"M CONSIDERING:

*Language Arts 12
*Math Analysis (supposedly equivalent to precalc)
*AP Government
*Accounting (have to take this to for business credit)
*Computer Applications (have to take this for computer credit)
*Band
*Seminar
*Free

First of all, is it weak?
Because, well, it definitely FEELS like it...
I had previously taken Japanese for 3 years but couldn't continue here because of scheduling problems. They also don't have AP Econ, which I intended to take at the old school. I don't know if having a Seminar AND a Free (what some would see as 2 frees) is a bad thing. But I really didn't want to waste another period taking some "filler" class. Instead, I've generally used the time to work on college applications/research. I'm only taking Accounting and Computer Appl. because I need these courses to graduate. What do you guys think?

By Vapajude87 (Vapajude87) on Sunday, October 03, 2004 - 09:22 am: Edit

I usually don't feel comfortable doing this, but what the heck...

BUMP

By Daffodil22 (Daffodil22) on Sunday, October 03, 2004 - 02:15 pm: Edit

I currently attend George Mason and love it. I came from out of state (Tennessee). While your GPA is a bit low, the SAT should help. Let me know if you have any questions about Mason.

By Vbtwins (Vbtwins) on Sunday, October 03, 2004 - 05:41 pm: Edit

Low for George Mason?????? I don't think so!

By Vapajude87 (Vapajude87) on Sunday, October 03, 2004 - 10:26 pm: Edit

Hey, daffodil22
Just a few questions.

Being from Tennessee, was it easy to fit in, befriend students?

Diversity is a big plus for me and I know that GMU is quite diverse, but is there actual integration? Or do people of different races generally segregate themselves?

I have a few more I'll post later.
Thanks a lot.

By Raider (Raider) on Sunday, October 03, 2004 - 11:08 pm: Edit

My friend Syed has a few questions, primarily concerning UVA:

1) What do you think are my chances for getting into UVA with a GPA of 3.804(Weighted), rated 12/266, 1190 SAT (650m540v), NHS, FBLA, lacrosse, and marching band, and I'm instate in Northern VA? He is also taking a difficult schedule this year including 4 AP classes. He also speaks a mix of Urdu and English because his parents are from Pakistan.

2) How do I improve my chances for UVA?

3) Is it ok to take the SAT more than 3 times (like at most 4), or do colleges look at it unfavorably?

By Daffodil22 (Daffodil22) on Sunday, October 03, 2004 - 11:24 pm: Edit

Vapajude,

It's my freshman year, but so far, I have fit in very well. There are a large number of out- of- state students (in the neighborhood of 10-15 %) and people are very friendly.

GMU is very diverse. For the most part, different races interact. There are several clubs and orginizations for people of different races, and they tend to foster a sense of community for the differing ethnicities.

Anything else, feel free to post or email me.

By Raider (Raider) on Sunday, October 03, 2004 - 11:28 pm: Edit

What do you think my chances for UVA, W&M, JMU, Vtech, UMich, Penn State, Brown, and Cornell are with my stats?: around 3.75 GPA (rated 17/226), 1400 combined SAT (680m,720v), President NHS, President French NHS, played lacrosse since 4th grade, played travel hockey forever, also in Northern VA and taking a difficult schedule with 5 AP classes.

Also, what kind of scores do I need on the SAT IIs?

By Vapajude87 (Vapajude87) on Monday, October 04, 2004 - 02:46 am: Edit

Raider:
Hey! Stop intruding my thread!! j/k, but honestly, you'd probably get more responses if you created your own.

I'm nowhere near as competitive as you, so take my opinion on your chances as you like...
JMU is definitely a safety.
Your chances at both UVA & W&M are good. (If you were an out-of-stater, I'd still say your chances were solid.) You might want to try bring that GPA up a little though.
Don't know about the other schools, but I'm assuming Brown and Cornell will be tough. Consider them as good reaches maybe?
Good luck! No matter what happens, I'm sure you'll end up attending a fine school.

(Btw, your friend should definitely retake the SAT, because even if it does look bad to take it multiple times, a much higher score, even after several tests, would look better than a low one of 1190 (bottom 25%). Maybe he should emphazie his Pakistani background in essays if possible.)

By Vapajude87 (Vapajude87) on Monday, October 04, 2004 - 03:06 am: Edit

Daffodil:
You said that my GPA is low but that my SAT will help, yet, you never clearly stated what my chances were. what do you think? reach or good match?

Is the "commuter school" aspect of GMU really prominent on campus? Is it like a ghost town at the end of the day and on weekends?

If you can answer this question, what do you think of the business program? I probably will end up studying accounting. Any opinions? What have you heard?

And I'm just curious, but why did you consider GMU, especially since you came from TN? Was it because of its close proximity to D.C.?

Thanks, again. really appreciate it.

By Daffodil22 (Daffodil22) on Monday, October 04, 2004 - 12:21 pm: Edit

It's probably a match for you. GMU is getting much more competitive each coming year, but you still have a great shot.

Yes, GMU has a lot of commuters. They are taking strides toward becoming a residential school, and it shows. Most commuters are still involved in other aspects of campus life- clubs, sports, organizations.

I wouldn't say that we become a ghost town, but many people do leave after class. The housing setup allows for all freshman to live in the same area, thus fostering a sense of community and activities in the evenings and on weekends.

The business program here is good. Actually, you technically can't be admitted to the business school until your junior year and it requires at least a 3.0 GPA from freshman and sophomore year.

I am a government major. I came to Mason because I wanted to go to school in a large city. The other schools I looked at had less of a campus and more of a downtown-city feel. GMU offered a good size, good basketball team (I like to watch), and great government program. It's also a lot cheaper than DC private universities.

By Raider (Raider) on Monday, October 04, 2004 - 10:52 pm: Edit

Thanks Vapajude, I'm out of your thread now.

By M4ttjabz (M4ttjabz) on Wednesday, October 06, 2004 - 10:47 pm: Edit

vapajude:

my stats are very similar to yours...
2.8uw/3.2w GPA, 1320 SAT1
and I'm from VA

After hours of reading threads and looking at the princeton review, I'm applying/have applied to the following:

SAFETY:
VCU

MATCH:
George Mason
UMBC

REACH:
JMU
VT
MWC

Having such a low GPA WILL hurt our chances. I wrote a compelling essay and hope that it helps, but realize it can only say so much. I'm pretty much settled on the fact that I may have to attend VCU and honestly I'm not too concerned. An acceptance from any other school would be a gift and a definite surprise. It's cool to see someone else in the same situation. good luck...

-matt

By Vapajude87 (Vapajude87) on Friday, October 08, 2004 - 10:21 am: Edit

Wow, Matt! Those ARE some pretty similar stats.

I'm not quite as accepting of the fact that I may have to attend VCU. I mean, I'll go if that's what I'm limited to, but I don't see myself being very happy living in the middle of Richmond for an entire 4 years. Really hoping to receive good news from at least GMU.

It'll definitely be interesting to see which schools take us. I'll be on the look out for a post by you come this April, Matt. Best of luck to you too!

By M4ttjabz (M4ttjabz) on Friday, October 08, 2004 - 06:16 pm: Edit

remember, you can always transfer after a year or two. I live in Charlottesville, so if I don't like wherever I go, I'll just try to transfer to UVa after getting good grades.