I am a freshman at Cornell University, College of Human Ecology. I just completed my first semester at school and would like to let you in on some tricks I have learned to increase your chances of getting in to this great school:

Note: Cornell University is not a party school! However, if you learn to manage your time, you can have a great time and still get a phenomenal education.


What TO do when applying to this school:

Early Decision:
If you have visited Cornell University and you are positive that the school is right for you, then I highly recommend that you apply early decision. Yes, early decision is binding, but if you seriously want to go to this school, you will significantly increase your chances by applying early. Cornell University has one of the highest early decision acceptance ratios in the country. If you don't want to compete with the Harvard and Princeton turnovers in the regular decision pool, EARLY DECISION is the way to go.

If you're a guy, apply to Human Ecology:
The College of Human Ecology is one of the most underrated schools at Cornell University. At Cornell, when you apply, you must apply to a specific school. Unless you have a strong feeling about what you want to do when you graduate, I suggest you apply to the College of Human Ecology. Why? The School of Human Ecology houses many Biology and Nutrition majors, along with a fashion major. Thus, the school has too many girls. If you apply to this school as a guy, your chances of getting in to Cornell are a lot better. The College of Human Ecology is the state school part of Cornell so tuition is $10,000 cheaper. Finally, you can take classes in any other school and if you don't like Human Ecology you can always transfer to another school within the university.

Get an interview:
Some schools rely more heavily on interview feedback than others. Cornell University is one of those schools. You can either visit the school or find Cornell alumni in your area to conduct an interview. Either method will suffice, but I strongly recommend an interview if you are serious about attending Cornell.

SAT's DO NOT decide it all:
Many parents and kids are under the misconception that low SAT scores will guarantee your rejection from a major institution such as Cornell University. The truth is that Cornell would rather see a well-rounded individual rather than a student with just high SAT scores. If you demonstrate leadership, good academics, extracurricular activities, and community service, SAT scores will have little bearing on their decision to accept you.

What does count then?
- well written applications (including essays)
- interview
- SAT improvement (based on two tests)
- luck

Recommended: Yes