9 answers
kalynn
Student
West Monroe, Louisiana
2
Questions
Asked
1330 views
How worried should I be about getting into college?
I have a 4.04 weighted GPA, taken 8 AP classes, mostly honors/AP courses, but no extracurriculars because of my super strict parents. My ACT scores are 27 composite, with 31 English, 30 reading, 24 math, and 23 science, but I’m working to improve them. I really want to get into LSU or the University of Arkansas, but I’m worried my lack of extracurriculars might hurt my chances—even though I got into Louisiana Tech with a scholarship. I’m also unsure about going to Tech since it’s so close to home and I want a fuller college experience. How important are extracurriculars and ACT scores for LSU and UARK? Also, do you have recommendations for any other colleges I should consider applying to?
9 answers
Rob Stanger
Sales Operations
1
Answer
Salt Lake City, Utah
Updated
Rob’s Answer
Great job on your academic success! Take a moment to relax and appreciate what you've achieved. With your scores, getting into LSU or Arkansas should be a breeze. LSU has a 74% acceptance rate, and Arkansas is at 72%. As long as there aren't any major issues on your record, you should be in good shape.
Choosing where to attend is up to you. Think about which school is best for your field of interest. Also, keep an eye on costs and look for scholarships. From what I've seen, unless you're aiming for a "Top 10" school like the Ivy League, where you study doesn't hugely impact your job prospects or career. However, it can greatly affect your student debt.
If I had to choose between LSU without a scholarship and L-Tech with a full scholarship, the choice would be clear.
Best of luck!
Research universities that are strong with your intended area of study.
Reach out to Financial Aid offices to start the scholarship process ASAP.
Choosing where to attend is up to you. Think about which school is best for your field of interest. Also, keep an eye on costs and look for scholarships. From what I've seen, unless you're aiming for a "Top 10" school like the Ivy League, where you study doesn't hugely impact your job prospects or career. However, it can greatly affect your student debt.
If I had to choose between LSU without a scholarship and L-Tech with a full scholarship, the choice would be clear.
Best of luck!
Rob recommends the following next steps:
Thank you so much, Rob!
kalynn
Mehwish Gu
Marketing
3
Answers
Sacramento, California
Updated
Mehwish’s Answer
Great you’re interested in practical skills! Here are 3 strong courses that focus on hands-on work in social media marketing:
Udacity – Social Media Marketing
• A beginner-friendly 12-hour course covering content calendars, targeted ads, platform tools and more.
• Emphasizes real-world projects and skill application.
Digital Marketing Institute via Coursera – Social Media Marketing in Practice Specialization
• Four-course series with hands-on exercises applying strategy to content, platforms, and analytics.
• Good if you want a deeper dive with practical tasks.
University of Wisconsin‑Milwaukee (online) – Social Media Marketing: Practical Course
• Covers platform-specific skills: Facebook/Instagram pages, videos, influencer tactics, analytics, creating/handling campaigns.
• Ideal if you want a self-paced but more structured program with applied tasks.
Udacity – Social Media Marketing
• A beginner-friendly 12-hour course covering content calendars, targeted ads, platform tools and more.
• Emphasizes real-world projects and skill application.
Digital Marketing Institute via Coursera – Social Media Marketing in Practice Specialization
• Four-course series with hands-on exercises applying strategy to content, platforms, and analytics.
• Good if you want a deeper dive with practical tasks.
University of Wisconsin‑Milwaukee (online) – Social Media Marketing: Practical Course
• Covers platform-specific skills: Facebook/Instagram pages, videos, influencer tactics, analytics, creating/handling campaigns.
• Ideal if you want a self-paced but more structured program with applied tasks.
Mehwish Gu
Marketing
3
Answers
Sacramento, California
Updated
Mehwish’s Answer
If you have a weighted GPA above 4.0 with AP and honors classes, you are already in a strong position for admission at many universities, including LSU and the University of Arkansas. Both schools are test-optional, so you are not required to submit ACT scores if they are below the average range. At LSU, for example, the average ACT is around 28, while Arkansas admits many students in the mid-20s. If your GPA is strong but your scores are slightly below average, applying test-optional can actually work in your favor.
Extracurriculars are important, but colleges understand that students’ opportunities outside of school vary. What matters most is how you have used your time. If your schedule has been centered on academics or personal responsibilities, you can simply explain that in the “Additional Information” section of your application. Keep it positive and factual. Emphasize your focus on academics, and if you start any activities now (tutoring, volunteering, part-time work, or a small independent project), include them. Admissions officers value commitment, initiative, and maturity more than a long list of clubs.
In your case, you already have an admission and scholarship offer from Louisiana Tech, which is an excellent safety. LSU and UArk remain very realistic targets, especially if you highlight your academic rigor, secure strong teacher recommendations, and write authentic essays. If you want additional options with a similar campus experience, consider Mississippi State, University of Alabama, Auburn, or University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Bottom line: your GPA and course rigor are your biggest strengths, and with a smart application strategy you are well-positioned to get into college and thrive once you are there.
Round out your list. Add 2–3 matches like Mississippi State, University of Alabama, or Auburn, schools where your GPA is well above average and your ACT is within range. That gives you choice and the “fuller college experience” you want.
Strengthen your application story. Use the “Additional Information” section to note that your focus has been on academics and responsibilities rather than clubs. Add even a small current activity (volunteering, tutoring, independent project) to show initiative. Secure strong recommendations from AP/honors teachers who can highlight your rigor, discipline, and character. Essays and recs will carry extra weight when activities are lighter.
Extracurriculars are important, but colleges understand that students’ opportunities outside of school vary. What matters most is how you have used your time. If your schedule has been centered on academics or personal responsibilities, you can simply explain that in the “Additional Information” section of your application. Keep it positive and factual. Emphasize your focus on academics, and if you start any activities now (tutoring, volunteering, part-time work, or a small independent project), include them. Admissions officers value commitment, initiative, and maturity more than a long list of clubs.
In your case, you already have an admission and scholarship offer from Louisiana Tech, which is an excellent safety. LSU and UArk remain very realistic targets, especially if you highlight your academic rigor, secure strong teacher recommendations, and write authentic essays. If you want additional options with a similar campus experience, consider Mississippi State, University of Alabama, Auburn, or University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Bottom line: your GPA and course rigor are your biggest strengths, and with a smart application strategy you are well-positioned to get into college and thrive once you are there.
Mehwish recommends the following next steps:
I appreciate your support, Mehwish
kalynn
George Zou, M.S.
Academic Advisor
36
Answers
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Updated
George’s Answer
Hello Kalynn,
First, you should be so proud of your accomplishments and I seriously would not worry too much—you actually have a really strong profile. Your GPA is great, and taking 8 AP classes shows you work really hard. That’s something colleges like to see.
About your ACT scores, they’re not bad at all, especially your English and Reading scores. It’s smart that you’re working to improve them because higher scores can make getting into schools like LSU or UArk even easier and could help with scholarships.
It’s true you don’t have many extracurriculars, but big state schools usually care more about grades and test scores than clubs or sports. So your hard work in school really matters. If you can show anything else—like volunteering, online competitions, or helping people in small ways—it could help, but it’s not a dealbreaker.
It sounds like you really want a fuller college experience, not just stay close to home. That’s totally okay. Louisiana Tech is great, but if you want more independence and to meet new people, LSU or UArk could be a better fit for you. You might also look at a few other schools that match your grades and test scores so you have options.
Overall, you’re in a good position. Keep studying to improve your ACT, maybe try a small volunteer project if you can, and focus on finding a school that fits what you want in college life. You’ve got this!
First, you should be so proud of your accomplishments and I seriously would not worry too much—you actually have a really strong profile. Your GPA is great, and taking 8 AP classes shows you work really hard. That’s something colleges like to see.
About your ACT scores, they’re not bad at all, especially your English and Reading scores. It’s smart that you’re working to improve them because higher scores can make getting into schools like LSU or UArk even easier and could help with scholarships.
It’s true you don’t have many extracurriculars, but big state schools usually care more about grades and test scores than clubs or sports. So your hard work in school really matters. If you can show anything else—like volunteering, online competitions, or helping people in small ways—it could help, but it’s not a dealbreaker.
It sounds like you really want a fuller college experience, not just stay close to home. That’s totally okay. Louisiana Tech is great, but if you want more independence and to meet new people, LSU or UArk could be a better fit for you. You might also look at a few other schools that match your grades and test scores so you have options.
Overall, you’re in a good position. Keep studying to improve your ACT, maybe try a small volunteer project if you can, and focus on finding a school that fits what you want in college life. You’ve got this!
sherin sharawy
Product Marketing Manager - Project Lead
4
Answers
Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Updated
sherin’s Answer
At very selective schools, extracurricular activities are important because they help set students apart when grades and test scores are similar.
At big public universities like LSU or UARK, these activities are less important for general admission. Grades, course difficulty, and test scores are the main focus.
However, for scholarships, honors programs, or specific departments, having extracurriculars like leadership roles or long-term involvement can really help.
If you haven't done many activities before, colleges understand. You can explain in your application if there were reasons, like family responsibilities, that limited your involvement.
You can also start listing any small activities you've done, like volunteering or community work.
At big public universities like LSU or UARK, these activities are less important for general admission. Grades, course difficulty, and test scores are the main focus.
However, for scholarships, honors programs, or specific departments, having extracurriculars like leadership roles or long-term involvement can really help.
If you haven't done many activities before, colleges understand. You can explain in your application if there were reasons, like family responsibilities, that limited your involvement.
You can also start listing any small activities you've done, like volunteering or community work.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
kalynn
Job Hall
Real Estate Manager
157
Answers
Reno, Nevada
Updated
Job’s Answer
I think that you need to look at what school to go to, I would go the college that is the best in the field you want to work in. What you want to do for work? It is very important that you are happy and interested in what you do for work. You will be more fulfilled and successful as well as successful.
When I went to law school I selected the school by the strongest programs in taxation and real estate that I could get into.
Once you figure that out I think you should have good chances of getting into a good school.
Remember that you will spend as much time at work as yoeu do at home, almost.
Definitely try to get your math and science test results higher , you have to look well rounded. It would be nice if your family would let you do one free civic experience. Feed the poor, clean up a park, there are many options.
Good luck.
When I went to law school I selected the school by the strongest programs in taxation and real estate that I could get into.
Once you figure that out I think you should have good chances of getting into a good school.
Remember that you will spend as much time at work as yoeu do at home, almost.
Definitely try to get your math and science test results higher , you have to look well rounded. It would be nice if your family would let you do one free civic experience. Feed the poor, clean up a park, there are many options.
Good luck.
Thanks for the advice.
kalynn
Goodera Careervillage
63
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Goodera’s Answer
Hi there,
You're on the right path and ready for success wherever you go. Keep doing what you're doing! It's okay to explore different options, so apply to various schools—big, small, and community colleges. Remember, 2 + 2 programs can be a great help. You've got this, so don't worry! Starting college is a fresh start with new friends, grades, and experiences that you'll always remember.
Wishing you the best!
You're on the right path and ready for success wherever you go. Keep doing what you're doing! It's okay to explore different options, so apply to various schools—big, small, and community colleges. Remember, 2 + 2 programs can be a great help. You've got this, so don't worry! Starting college is a fresh start with new friends, grades, and experiences that you'll always remember.
Wishing you the best!
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
kalynn
Wendy (Uyen) Joe
Account Manager
6
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Wendy (Uyen)’s Answer
Hi Kalynn,
You have accomplished so much leading up to applying for colleges now and should be very proud of yourself. Congrats on getting into Louisiana Tech with a scholarship, that's awesome! I hear you are worried about not getting into your dream colleges, but there are alternative options if you are not able to get in your first year. Have you explored going to a community college or different college and then transferring to LSU or University of Arkansas? I do agree with the other advise and pursue colleges that have one of the best programs for your major. However, keep in mind that internships that get you close to your career is one of the best ways to start your career path during college. In fact, I did not get into my first-choice colleges and was a transfer student from a community college and got into my dream school with a change in my major in my freshman year at the community college. I'm confident things will work for you on your current path, and may not be what you expect, but keep an open mind and don't worry, you will get an amazing college experience no matter what!
Wishing you all the best on your bright future!
You have accomplished so much leading up to applying for colleges now and should be very proud of yourself. Congrats on getting into Louisiana Tech with a scholarship, that's awesome! I hear you are worried about not getting into your dream colleges, but there are alternative options if you are not able to get in your first year. Have you explored going to a community college or different college and then transferring to LSU or University of Arkansas? I do agree with the other advise and pursue colleges that have one of the best programs for your major. However, keep in mind that internships that get you close to your career is one of the best ways to start your career path during college. In fact, I did not get into my first-choice colleges and was a transfer student from a community college and got into my dream school with a change in my major in my freshman year at the community college. I'm confident things will work for you on your current path, and may not be what you expect, but keep an open mind and don't worry, you will get an amazing college experience no matter what!
Wishing you all the best on your bright future!
Thanks for your encouragement!
kalynn
Don Holland
Member Service Representative/Food Runner
244
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Don’s Answer
Hello Kalynn,
It seems that you are doing very good in school and you will be fine no matter what college you eventually go to! I would definitely recommend keeping up the good progress you are doing in school and not worrying about whether you get into LSU because they would be missing out. For myself I had a 2.5 GPA in high school, so you did way better than me. In terms of other advice I would recommend applying to a couple more universities you would consider and see if you could get more scholarships or other college assistance. You will make the right decision and everything will work how it is supposed to be, best of luck!
It seems that you are doing very good in school and you will be fine no matter what college you eventually go to! I would definitely recommend keeping up the good progress you are doing in school and not worrying about whether you get into LSU because they would be missing out. For myself I had a 2.5 GPA in high school, so you did way better than me. In terms of other advice I would recommend applying to a couple more universities you would consider and see if you could get more scholarships or other college assistance. You will make the right decision and everything will work how it is supposed to be, best of luck!
Thank you, this is really helpful.
kalynn
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