The University of Illinois Urbana - Champaign

“I may have some benefits of affirmativeNov 04 2009Sociology
I may have some benefits of affirmative action, but even minority students who come here have a lot to offer. My only down fall was my ACT scores (I had a 19). Everything else looked pretty good though. I had a 3.73 GPA, ranked #5 or 6 in my class, and was involved in almost everything at my high school from student council, all types of sports, etc. Most minorities that I know had similar situations to mine. So I'd say get ur GPA up as high as u can, get involved in everything, and try your best on the ACT. If your a minority student and that's ur only issue I wouldn't worry about it. As far as the others I'd just say work hard, get involved, and stay at the top of your class.
ACT: 19 Female

“Largely based onNov 01 2009Electrical Engineering
Largely based on ACT/SAT and HS rank. Beat the middle 50% to have a good degree of certainty in getting in.
ACT: 35 Male

“Be honestApr 08 2009Economics
Be honest. Tell them the real reason you want to go there in your personal essay, and let your voice come through. they really appreciate honesty, and will grant admission to good people, regardless of scores.
ACT: 32 Female

“Be sincere, myMar 17 2009Business - Management and Administration
Be sincere, my act scores weren't the best but I showed genuine interest in my essays and I go it. Always reach for the unattainable!
ACT: 23 Female

“I recommend being a diverse candidateMar 17 2009Unknown
I recommend being a diverse candidate. Grades and ACT/SAT scores are (sadly) a part of every admissions process, but Illinois values students who are well-rounded. This means voluntering in your community, working in your community, being a member of a group through your school, volunteering at your school - basically showing that you have made a difference in your school and local community.
ACT: 26 Female