- Nora Sun
Tags: Stanford, first generation
Institution: Stanford University
Study: undecided
High School Experience
My high school experience was great, my teachers were great and although my classes were very challenging, it was a very great experience. My school is very competitive, so it was extremely draining being a part of the community, but it paid off in the end.
Course choices
I was more of a STEM person, so I took two science courses each year for two years. I also took two music courses every single year of high school, which I think shows great commitment and determination.
AP/IBs
AP Euro, AP Capstone, AP Research, AP BC Calc, AP Bio, AP Chem, AP Chinese, APUSH, AP Lang, AP Spanish. I basically got all 3’s besides AP Capstone which I got a 4, and AP Spanish which I got a 5.
GPA
99/100 unweighted
Standardized Testing
ACT: 35
SAT Spanish: 760
SAT Math 1: 700
Extracurriculars
I had SO MANY extracurriculars. I was the lead in my school's musical, Mamma Mia (I played Donna Sheridan). I was the President of The Tri-M Honor Society, Multicultural Club, and Cabaret Night. I was the Outreach Lead of my Robotics Team, and I was treasurer of Telecommunications Club. I volunteered at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center during senior year, and I also had a job in my school as a lighting and sound technician. I was co-captain of the JV Lacrosse team, and I placed 6th in the county for race walk and weight throw in Winter Track and Field. I was basically always at school getting involved in every way possible.
Recommendations
I had great relationships with my teachers, especially the ones that wrote my letters of recommendation. I made sure that I was always involved in their classes and that I was also showing interest in extra help.
Essays
My theme throughout my application was music, languages, and culture. I spoke about how everything in my life relates to those three things somehow.
Strengths
I think my strong musical talents made me stand out, as well as my strong sense of leadership in my community and my school. I was an All-state vocalist and I was the lead in the musical. I sent in a musical portfolio to most schools, so they were able to listen to my performance of my singing. I also was just EXTREMELY involved in extracurriculars at my school, which made me stand out. I also have always helped people in my community and beyond, always making that an important part of my life.
Advice
Never give up on your dreams, no matter what other people say to you. Don’t pay attention to what other people say because it’s your life.
Circumstances
First generation
Why?
This was my dream school since 7th grade, and it is perfect for me. There is so much diversity, and especially outstanding academics.