Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

“I applied early and wrote a strong essay to get inDec 19 2008Unknown
I applied early and wrote a strong essay to get in. I also had high test scores which helped. It isn't that hard to get in if you have above average SAT scores. If you're at or below the average HS senior in test scores, consider retaking the tests or applying to another school.
SAT: 2250 Male

“RPI is getting a lot of applicants, and isNov 26 2008Aerospace Engineering
RPI is getting a lot of applicants, and is starting to increase their standards. But if you a good student in HS, your getting accepted.
Male

“I wasn't an outstanding high school student, but IOct 28 2008Biology
I wasn't an outstanding high school student, but I was well rounded: from a small town in WNY, 3rd in my class (of 100), did awesome on the ACT but pretty crappy on the SAT, varsity sports all 4 years of high school, art classes, NHS. I guess the well-rounded-ness helped me out. I ended up getting $30K in scholarships, which led to my decision to come here. But I advise you stay a night at the campus to check it out first. And talk to students (that don't have their noses burried in books) about how they feel.
ACT: 32 Female

“I took the hardest courses my high school offered,Aug 22 2008Math
I took the hardest courses my high school offered, and by far the most mathematically intensive schedule possible at my school during senior year (AP Calculus BC, the calculus-intensive AP Physics C, AP Computer Science AB, AP Statistics, tutored other upperclassmen, math team, and some independent math study). I also applied with the Candidate's Choice Application (which is found either on the RPI website or in your e-mail inbox... multiple times) early.
SAT: 2290 Male

“The Rensselaer Medal scholarship is always a good helpJul 07 2008Computer Engineering
The Rensselaer Medal scholarship is always a good help. Not only does it provide an awesome monetary scholarship, it helps with admissions as well. High School extracurriculars, decent test scores/GPA, and especially good letters of recommendation are a must.

When considering schools, don't immediately assume you cannot afford it. My family makes under $50k combined (both parents), plus my brother is also in school now, and I will be able to graduate with under $15k in loans. Consider average engineering starting salaries are upwards of $50k (if you intern/Co-op, expect over $60k), that isn't so bad.
ACT: 34 SAT: 1450 Male