The University of Rochester

“Write a really good essay, interview, and discuss detailsNov 07 2008Economics
Write a really good essay, interview, and discuss details about the U of R
the interview is REALLY important. like really.

really really.
SAT: 2020 Female

“Despite what some people say, I don't honestly thinkAug 17 2008Electrical Engineering
Despite what some people say, I don't honestly think UR is that hard to get into. I applied ED, so maybe I'm an exception, but if you've taken AP courses throughout high school, gotten fairly decent grades, and write well, you shouldn't have any trouble. Applying to other high-grade schools also helps- they love stealing students from Ivy schools.
ACT: 32 SAT: 2110 Male

“I did a lot of extra curricular activities andJul 15 2008Language - French/Spanish/etc.
I did a lot of extra curricular activities and a lot of Advanced Placement classes, actually all that my school offered by my junior year of high school. I also was enrolled full time at the state University my senior year.
SAT: 1380 Male

“Well, I overestimated the difficulty to get inMay 23 2008Finance
Well, I overestimated the difficulty to get in. As long as you do have something special(better unique), it won't be hard.
Male

“If you want to go to U of R,Apr 09 2008Other
If you want to go to U of R, you should definitely set up an interview with an alum in your area. I did this and it helped me get in despite my relatively low test scores. Make sure you express your interest in attending a research university that can offer you the best education for your money.

Be creative with your applications essay. Write it yourself and write it about something you are really interested in. My essay was a fictional story of myself in the future working frantically in a lab to combat an ebola pandemic by developing a cure or vaccine or something. It was exciting and different. Its very overused to talk about your past experiences, so use the applications essay as an opportunity to demonstrate your creativity instead.

Don't worry too much about your test scores or high school grades. They do need to be decent, but I am proof that they do not need to be excellent. Also it helps if you took challenging courses in high school rather than just taking the minimum and getting good grades. They would rather see you get a C in an AP class than get an A in a regular class. Keep that in mind.

Hope this helps.
Male