The University of California - Berkeley

“Spend a lot of time beefing up your essaysNov 12 2008Other
Spend a lot of time beefing up your essays. Connect what you've done to what you plan on doing later in life. Show that your extracurricular activities have some application, prove that they weren't just resume fillers.
SAT: 1980 Female

“The usualOct 08 2007Chemistry
the usual...I took all the AP classes I could got mostly As and then did decent on the SAT. Though if you aren't from California. it will be much harder to get in.
SAT: 1360 Male

“Strong grades and a highJul 21 2007Biology
Strong grades and a high SAT score are the basics. Aside from that, I focused on student government in high school, gradually increasing my involvement as Senior year approached. From looking at a few of my friends who got accepted or rejected, the adcom also seem to like to see a few unrelated ECs on the side, but certainly you need a main one that shows you can stick to something in particular.
ACT: 35 SAT: 1490 Male

“I think my personal statement saved meJun 25 2007Psychology
I think my personal statement saved me. I had a great GPA but not the best SAT scores. I wrote my essay vaguely about how i wanted to make the world a better place - a very Berkeley idealistic view. Be honest and show your true self.

“Great GPA, GreatMar 22 2006Political Science
Great GPA, Great SAT scores, and tons of activities!
SAT: 1400 Male