The University of Illinois Urbana - Champaign

“I got highJun 30 2008Computer Engineering
I got high grades in my community college courses.
SAT: 1200 Male

“In addition to achieving high scores on the ACTApr 22 2008PreMed and Medical
In addition to achieving high scores on the ACT and SAT and maintaining a near-perfect GPA, I also got involved in many extra-curricular activities. During my junior year, I opted to study abroad during the summer and I was involved with many leadership positions.

Do not be intimidated with the size of this university. While there are many large lecture courses, you do have many smaller discussion and lecture courses with a higher TA or Professor to student ratio.

Good luck and don't let anyone tell you that you can't achieve your dreams!
ACT: 32 Female

“I was a pretty good HS studentDec 27 2007Other
I was a pretty good HS student. I had a good GPA and was involved with community activities. I also had a pretty high ACT score. Thus being so the University basically catered to me as far as acceptance. I didnt have to try hard. If I remember right, there wasn't a essay that needed to be submitted. That may not be true anymore. The university accepts a wide range of students. I think if you were a pretty bright kid in HS, you have a good chance of getting in. I also think that little things like clubs, sports, and community service really impact this university's decision making process.
Female

“Though I did well on the ACT and wasJul 25 2006Psychology
Though I did well on the ACT and was in the top 5 of my graduating class, I believe my extra-curricular high school activities helped me get in more. I was a 4-year two-sport athlete (not good enough for D1, though!); I was co-founder of Interact, a community-service based organization run through our high school; I was also in numerous 'clubs' like the President's Club, Gifted Program, and I volunteered each Sunday to wheel old folks to mass at a local old folks home. Good grades alone won't get you in...you need to be a contributor to your community, too!
ACT: 31 Male

“If yourMar 31 2006Agriculture/Horticulture
If your grades aren't so great, apply to one of the less selective colleges. Assuming your grades are OK the first year, you can switch out. However, don't apply to a college you have no genuine interest in. ACES is getting more selective and I think the only reason I got in was because I had a strong interest and background in science.
ACT: 31 SAT: 1450 Female