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I want to apply to the NYU Simon’s Summer program but I know it’s extremely selective with only a 5% acceptance rate and I’m worried I’m not good enough so could anyone read my stats? I have a 4.5 weighted gpa and a 4.0 unweighted I maxed out the rigor of my course work in both of of my years of high school (I’m a sophomore) and for extracurriculars I started a nonprofit that has received over 100+ letters that go to children in the area that face hardships, I also started an LA fundraiser that has collected over 200+ clothing articles in about two weeks, I have an essay that’s almost ready to be published about the unintentional disregard of women in the health care system and its affects on their lives, I also have a children’s book about women’s health that should be ready to self publish in the second week of February, I have a HOBY nomination for leadership, I take an EMT course and will be certified by June, I am a girls in the run junior coach( local nonprofit that helps young girls become more confident and assertive), I also work as an HR at a tutoring company, I also have a prototype of a women’s health app I am trying to develop, and to finish off I started reasearching possible early diagnosis of endometriosis through cell trackers found in menstrual blood. However I know that pretty much all of the kids submitting an application have done these things or something way better so I was wondering if anyone could give me some ideas on how to help me get admitted into the program?!
NYU Simon’s Summer Program
-I also volunteer at a geriatric hospital
- Do color guard, violin , piano
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3 answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Sanya !
I am greatly impressed with all of your accomplishments as well as your interests and would like to give you some advice.
You are really awesome and I advise that you apply for the NYU Simon’s Summer Program and hope for the best, but do not stress over it. No one can really tell you how to get definite acceptance into any program. It is going to be solely up to the people who evaluate your application. They may have only so many slots for students, so do not take it personally if you do not get into this program, there will be other programs. Your application for the program will be processed and decided by the team at that program. There's nothing more that you can do, really, plus you are doing plenty right now and it should not be underestimated.
While you are at it, apply for other programs, too. Something that is in your favor for any program is that you have such unique involvement and interests which makes you stand out ! You are going to get used to applying for things and relaxing and waiting to hear back. It gets easier as time goes on. But for a person like you, there is always going to be something exciting and wonderful in your future. It's always easy to worry about things we want very much, but since you are so active and involved, the best thing to do is also apply for other programs just to cover as much ground as possible and increase your chances for a summer program.
Keep smiling !
I am greatly impressed with all of your accomplishments as well as your interests and would like to give you some advice.
You are really awesome and I advise that you apply for the NYU Simon’s Summer Program and hope for the best, but do not stress over it. No one can really tell you how to get definite acceptance into any program. It is going to be solely up to the people who evaluate your application. They may have only so many slots for students, so do not take it personally if you do not get into this program, there will be other programs. Your application for the program will be processed and decided by the team at that program. There's nothing more that you can do, really, plus you are doing plenty right now and it should not be underestimated.
While you are at it, apply for other programs, too. Something that is in your favor for any program is that you have such unique involvement and interests which makes you stand out ! You are going to get used to applying for things and relaxing and waiting to hear back. It gets easier as time goes on. But for a person like you, there is always going to be something exciting and wonderful in your future. It's always easy to worry about things we want very much, but since you are so active and involved, the best thing to do is also apply for other programs just to cover as much ground as possible and increase your chances for a summer program.
Keep smiling !
Updated
Dr. Kelly’s Answer
Is it the Simons-NYU one for science? If so, I would strategize by tailoring the application towards accomplishments and work in the field of science instead of sprinkling in the "extras" where a reviewer may not see it as relevant. Ultimately, a school or job interviewer wants to know what you can do for THEM. In this case, I would guess that they use this program to recruit early admissions candidates for undergrad. List the relevance to science (or their program) that each experience taught you and what you want to do to expand on the field from there. Ex: "In Honors Biology, after my instructor gave us (XXXX project), I read multiple peer-reviewed sources and discovered a gap in (XXXX - access to medical care). In this program, I plan to use the information after working with (Dr. XXXX) to (XXXX- increase access to at-home screening). My (non-profit) that I created already helps in the area of (XXXX-awareness), but this program could help me improve the area of (XXXX)."
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Sanya,
First of all, let me say this: your accomplishments are incredible. Truly. Your stats and activities are beyond impressive—and I’m not just saying that to be encouraging. The combination of your academics (4.5 weighted GPA, 4.0 unweighted) and your extracurriculars (which are both diverse and meaningful) show that you’re not only hardworking but also deeply passionate about making a positive impact.
The NYU Simons Summer Program may be highly selective, but it’s clear that you’ve built a profile that stands out. Let me break this down for you:
1. Your Academic Rigor
You’ve maxed out the rigor of your coursework as a sophomore, which is a strong foundation. Many applicants might have impressive grades, but you’ve gone beyond that by challenging yourself with the hardest classes available.
2. Your Passion for Community Impact
Starting a nonprofit and running successful fundraisers shows leadership, initiative, and the ability to execute meaningful projects. The fact that you’ve helped, so many kids in your community, is huge. These aren’t just bullet points; they’re tangible impacts you’ve made.
3. Your Focus on Women’s Health
The essay, the children’s book, the app prototype, and the research into early diagnosis of endometriosis? This is a clear theme of advocacy and innovation in an underserved area. Admission committees love to see this type of focus—it demonstrates both purpose and depth in your interests.
4. Diverse and Complementary Activities
Your volunteer work at the geriatric hospital, leadership roles like being an HR at a tutoring company and a Girls on the Run coach, plus your EMT certification and color guard/music involvement all add dimensions to your application. You’re well-rounded while also having specific passions.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application:
1. Make Your Passion Crystal Clear in Your Essay
Your application essay is the key to tying everything together. Highlight "why" you’re passionate about what you do—especially your focus on women’s health—and how NYU Simons aligns with your goals. Share personal experiences or specific moments that inspired you to pursue this path.
2. Show How You’ll Contribute to the Program
The program isn’t just looking for impressive applicants; they’re looking for people who will actively contribute. Highlight how your skills, experiences, and perspective will enrich the experience for your peers.
3. Get Strong Recommendations
If you haven’t already, ask teachers or mentors who can really speak to your character and achievements to write letters of recommendation. Make sure they highlight your leadership, initiative, and passion.
4. Polish Your Resume
Organize your achievements in a way that’s easy to read and shows clear impact. Quantify wherever possible (e.g., “raised 200+ articles of clothing” or “impacted 100+ children through nonprofit letters”).
5. Practice Interviews (if applicable)
If there’s an interview component, prepare to speak confidently about your work, goals, and why this program is important to you.
I get that it’s easy to compare yourself to other applicants, but you’re "not" just like everyone else. You’re someone who’s already making waves at such a young age. Even if you don’t get into the program, it won’t be because you’re “not good enough”—it’s just that they have limited spots, and the process is subjective.
But honestly, with your stats, focus, and passion? You’re not just a competitive applicant—you’re "exactly" the type of student they’re looking for. So give it your all, and know that regardless of the outcome, you’ve already achieved more than most people do in a lifetime. You’ve got this!
Best wishes!
First of all, let me say this: your accomplishments are incredible. Truly. Your stats and activities are beyond impressive—and I’m not just saying that to be encouraging. The combination of your academics (4.5 weighted GPA, 4.0 unweighted) and your extracurriculars (which are both diverse and meaningful) show that you’re not only hardworking but also deeply passionate about making a positive impact.
The NYU Simons Summer Program may be highly selective, but it’s clear that you’ve built a profile that stands out. Let me break this down for you:
1. Your Academic Rigor
You’ve maxed out the rigor of your coursework as a sophomore, which is a strong foundation. Many applicants might have impressive grades, but you’ve gone beyond that by challenging yourself with the hardest classes available.
2. Your Passion for Community Impact
Starting a nonprofit and running successful fundraisers shows leadership, initiative, and the ability to execute meaningful projects. The fact that you’ve helped, so many kids in your community, is huge. These aren’t just bullet points; they’re tangible impacts you’ve made.
3. Your Focus on Women’s Health
The essay, the children’s book, the app prototype, and the research into early diagnosis of endometriosis? This is a clear theme of advocacy and innovation in an underserved area. Admission committees love to see this type of focus—it demonstrates both purpose and depth in your interests.
4. Diverse and Complementary Activities
Your volunteer work at the geriatric hospital, leadership roles like being an HR at a tutoring company and a Girls on the Run coach, plus your EMT certification and color guard/music involvement all add dimensions to your application. You’re well-rounded while also having specific passions.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application:
1. Make Your Passion Crystal Clear in Your Essay
Your application essay is the key to tying everything together. Highlight "why" you’re passionate about what you do—especially your focus on women’s health—and how NYU Simons aligns with your goals. Share personal experiences or specific moments that inspired you to pursue this path.
2. Show How You’ll Contribute to the Program
The program isn’t just looking for impressive applicants; they’re looking for people who will actively contribute. Highlight how your skills, experiences, and perspective will enrich the experience for your peers.
3. Get Strong Recommendations
If you haven’t already, ask teachers or mentors who can really speak to your character and achievements to write letters of recommendation. Make sure they highlight your leadership, initiative, and passion.
4. Polish Your Resume
Organize your achievements in a way that’s easy to read and shows clear impact. Quantify wherever possible (e.g., “raised 200+ articles of clothing” or “impacted 100+ children through nonprofit letters”).
5. Practice Interviews (if applicable)
If there’s an interview component, prepare to speak confidently about your work, goals, and why this program is important to you.
I get that it’s easy to compare yourself to other applicants, but you’re "not" just like everyone else. You’re someone who’s already making waves at such a young age. Even if you don’t get into the program, it won’t be because you’re “not good enough”—it’s just that they have limited spots, and the process is subjective.
But honestly, with your stats, focus, and passion? You’re not just a competitive applicant—you’re "exactly" the type of student they’re looking for. So give it your all, and know that regardless of the outcome, you’ve already achieved more than most people do in a lifetime. You’ve got this!
Best wishes!