The EDUFAX Educational FAQ

Question #182:

I am a junior. I take Journalism classes and am active in the Yearbook, News Bureau and take a Broadcast class. I have always wanted to go to Harvard, but read somewhere that journalism classes are considered "weak" in one's transcript. I am also considering Berkeley, Carnegie-Mellon, BU & Cornell. My GPA=4.461, ACT=29, SAT=1230, 13 hours of college credits, 200 community service hours, and am first in a class of 290. I live in the Mid-West.

Answer #182:

Without having all of your information, it is difficult to answer your question. Journalism classes are generally considered less challenging on a transcript than high-powered academic courses, especially AP courses. You have, however, made good use of your journalism classes and could make a case for yourself. Do you plan to pursue a career in Journalism? If so, that strengthens your case. Your GPA and class standing are phenomenal, and you may have heard that the University of California system has recommended not to consider SAT I scores for applicants starting in 2002, so your chances for Berkeley just jumped ahead. They usually require a composite SAT II score of 2100 or better for out-of-state applicants, however, so you need at least three 700's on your subject tests. If your town is in a rural area, you move up a bit more; if it is suburban, you are back in the regular pool. If you are a minority, an athlete, an artist, or a legacy, you move ahead a bit; if not, you fall two steps back. The University of California system does not care about your recommendations; for everywhere else, they had better jump off the page and sizzle with superlatives. You should spend some serious time preparing for the SATs; most kids who were admitted early this year (2001) to the schools you have chosen had scores well over 1450. But, remember, there are intangible qualities which schools look for and you may have them in abundance. Make sure that your essays are dynamic and original. Perhaps a good educational consultant could help you package yourself in the most beneficial manner. You sound like a terrific, motivated young man. I'm sure whatever college you attend will be proud to call you an alumnus one day. Don't focus on only one school. Focus on the quality of your education and you are bound to get a great one. EDUFAX provides services for the Collegebound High School Student.

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