- Nora Sun
Tags: MIT
Institution: MIT
Study: Major in computer science and psychology
High School Experience
My high school experience was alright. Academically it was pretty easy, and I had a nice relationship with my teachers. The environment among the students at my school, however, was kinda toxic and competitive (due to a few individuals) so I mostly kept to my own social circles. but I'd say overall it was a positive experience
AP/IBs
AP Calculus BC: 5
AP Computer Science A: 5
AP Physics 1: 5
AP Physics C: 5
AP Chemistry: 5
AP Chinese: 5
AP Euro: 5
AP US History: 5
AP Biology: 5
AP Spanish Language: 5
AP Economics: 5
AP Macro: 5
AP Micro: 5
AP Psychology: unknown
AP English Literature: unknown
GPA
4.58 weighted
Standardized Testing
SAT: 1580
Extracurriculars
Mainly orchestra stuff (principal flute), STEM competitions (science bowl captain, USACO, USABO, AMC/AIME), and research. All for 4 yrs except for research which was 3 yrs.
Recommendations
I had a good relationship but it wasn't super close. Looking back, I definitely would have tried to develop a closer relationship with my teachers outside of class.
Essays
There wasn't a general narrative, but I did repeatedly address research, coding, volunteering, and family.
Strengths
I think my competition scores (2x AIME qual scores 5 and 7, AMC distinguished honor roll, USACO platinum, USABO national top 50) stood me out the most for MIT and CMU. I think my music supplement probably stood me out to Columbia.
Advice
I recommend honestly finding a way to meaningfully contribute to the community, try not to come off as pretentious in your essays, do competitions because they're fun but not because they're a golden ticket.
Circumstances
None
Why?