u/Aromatic_Baker_9694

Image 1 — How to improve my PSAT 10 score for national merit?
Image 2 — How to improve my PSAT 10 score for national merit?
Image 3 — How to improve my PSAT 10 score for national merit?
▲ 1 r/psat

How to improve my PSAT 10 score for national merit?

I just received my PSAT score (I didn’t study), and i did much better than i thought, even though the score itself is pretty ok. I am mainly looking for resources for math/grammar since my reading comprehension is pretty good, or just some general tips of methods that worked for you. (My aim is 1450+: 740 rw and 710 math)

u/Aromatic_Baker_9694 — 3 hours ago

(Repost because I didn't get any responses last time)

I'm a sophomore aiming for top universities and LACs (Georgetown is my absolute dream), mainly want to see how strong my current profile is and get advice on my next steps.

Demographics

  • Gender: Female
  • Race/Ethnicity: Black Haitian American
  • Residence: Metropolitan Northeast area
  • Hooks (Recruited Athlete, URM, First-Gen, Geographic, Legacy, etc.): None

Intended Major(s): Public Policy, Philosophy Politics and Economics (or any variation)

Academics

  • Cumulative GPA (UW/W): 3.91 UW (Freshman Year: 3.96 and Current Sophomore Year GPA: 3.86, sophomore slump is real)
  • Rank (or percentile): [School does not rank]
  • # of Honors/AP/IB/Dual Enrollment/etc: [N/A, school doesn't allow until junior year, and there is a 3 AP max with the opportunity waiver for a 4th, you can waive into 1 AP sophomore year, but I did not know that)
  • Junior Year Course Load: AP Art History, AP Lang, AP African American, Calc I, Biology, Spanish III
  • Senior Year Course Load: [N/A, aiming for 4 APs]

Current Coursework

  • Advanced Algebra II & Precalculus — A- (90.74%)
  • American Literature — A- (92.96%)
  • United States History — A (96.05%)
  • Chemistry — A (93.33%)
  • Spanish II — A+ (98.71%)
  • 2-D Studio Art — A+ (99.09%)
  • Physical Education — A- (92.67%)

Standardized Testing

  • ACT: N/A
  • SAT II: N/A
  • AP/IB: N/A currently
  • Other (ex. IELTS, TOEFL, etc.): N/A

Extracurriculars/Activities

  1. District Attorney’s Youth Advisory Council (10) — Committee Chair & Committee Member: Led outreach for the Inclusive Curriculum Committee, coordinated partnerships with city civic organizations, and organized meetings with county educational leadership to discuss inclusive curriculum initiatives. Also chaired the Including Youth Voice in Restorative Justice Practices Committee and developed a policy to include youth voice in diversion programs. Invited to present policy work at the [Redacted] 20th Anniversary Youth Empowerment Summit (~1500–2000 attendees expected).
  2. Youth Advocacy Club (9–10) — Club Leader, Lead Graphic Designer & Lead Social Media Manager: Organized advocacy campaigns, school-wide presentations, club meetings, and [City] Advocacy Day participation with 15+ attendees. Lobbied directly to state legislators in [capital] for gun-sense legislation and helped advocate for the [Bill], which later passed the [state] Assembly. Established a partnership with [city] civics nonprofit to bring civics education to my school
  3. Yale Policy Institute High School Fellowship (10) — Fellow: One of ~40 students selected internationally for a competitive policy fellowship. Researched structural and environmental racism, wrote a policy memo, and was invited to present at the Yale Policy Institute Conference.
  4. City Civic Nonprofit Internship (10) — High School Intern: Developed and coordinated civic engagement presentations focused on voting access, advocacy, and personalized voting plans, with plans for expansion across [city] schools.
  5. City Theatre Civic Leadership Program (10) — Participant: One of 48 students selected across [city] to participate in a civic leadership and policy development program under mentorship from institutions including [Top LAC]. Currently developing a policy proposal to present to city officials.
  6. Mock Trial (10) — Defense Voir Dire Attorney: Competed in local mock trial competitions, learned courtroom procedure and legal strategy, and helped the team earn first place in competition.
  7. Model Congress (10) — Mentor & Parliamentarian: Mentored middle school students in debate, bill-writing, and public speaking. Selected as Co-Parliamentarian in a city-wide competition. [club started this year]
  8. Model United Nations (9–10) — Delegate: Participated in regional conferences, collaborated on working papers, and developed diplomacy and public speaking skills.
  9. Church Leadership & Community Service (8–10) — Youth Treasurer, Event Organizer, Volunteer: Completed 100+ volunteer hours helping organize community outreach events, including health fairs, job fairs with immigration services, school supply drives, and charity initiatives.

Awards/Honors

  1. National Honor Society 💀
  2. Local Mock Trial Competition — First Place 💀
  3. Michael Gordon Foundation Award (Nominated and Selected)
  4. Yale Policy Institute Certificate of Completion + Invitation to Present Mock One-pager policy memo
  5. Invitation to Speak and Be Recognized for community leadership at [Redacted] Annual Youth Empowerment Summit

Essays

  • Planning my Common App essay topic to be: 
    • In one line: Journal reflection on something my aunt told me, “Being slaves in the mind but physically free,” and how that reflection pushed me to study politics and pursue public policy
    • Structure: Format would show the progression of my thoughts, feelings, and actions through different mediums regarding this idea + integrating my love for policy and poli sci (along with history and literature) in it

I expect at least one of my policy proposals to be adopted, based on current feedback and its feasibility of implementation, and I have recently applied to the Youth Advocacy Organization's National Training Team. I am planning to do an internship at the DA's office and conduct some form of research over the summer (any tips on how to get one?). Next year (when I'm of age), I am applying to be part of a local governing body as a fully voting member (if accepted, I will be the only member who is a youth on the board) and am hoping to become a committee or board (absolute crapshot) chair by senior year. If I can't achieve that, I'll work towards being the secretary and/or co-chair.

Is there anything else I should do or any criticisms?

(If you know me, you don't)

reddit.com
u/Aromatic_Baker_9694 — 8 days ago

I'm a sophomore aiming for top universities and LACs (Georgetown is my absolute dream) mainly want to see how strong my current profile is and get advice on my next steps.

Demographics

  • Gender: Female
  • Race/Ethnicity: Black Haitian American
  • Residence: Metropolitan Northeast area
  • Income Bracket: (I'm not sure, but I know I'm middle class and need aid) $60,000-100,000
  • Type of School: Very Small (~200 kids) Private Independent School (with lots of t50 and t20 acceptances)
  • Hooks (Recruited Athlete, URM, First-Gen, Geographic, Legacy, etc.): None

Intended Major(s): Public Policy, Philosophy Politics and Economics (or any variation)

Academics

  • GPA (UW/W): 3.87 UW (94.79% overall average through first three quarters)
  • Rank (or percentile): School does not rank, class size is too small (~30 kids)
  • # of Honors/AP/IB/Dual Enrollment/etc: [N/A, school doesn't allow until junior year, and there is a 3 AP max with the opportunity waiver for a 4th, you can waive 1 AP sophomore year, but I did not know that)
  • Junior Year Course Load: AP Art History, AP Lang, AP African American, Calc I, Biology, Spanish III
  • Senior Year Course Load: [N/A, aiming for 4 APs: AP Lit, AP Gov, AP Psych, idk 4th. Also planning to take Advanced 2-D art, which my school doesn't count as an AP]

Current Coursework

  • Advanced Algebra II & Precalculus — A- (90.74%)
  • American Literature — A- (92.96%)
  • United States History — A (96.05%)
  • Chemistry — A (93.33%)
  • Spanish II — A+ (98.71%)
  • 2-D Studio Art — A+ (99.09%)
  • Physical Education — A- (92.67%)

Standardized Testing

  • SAT I: Preparing; aiming for 1500+
  • ACT: N/A
  • SAT II: N/A
  • AP/IB: N/A currently
  • Other (ex. IELTS, TOEFL, etc.): N/A

Extracurriculars/Activities

  1. Youth Advocacy Club (9–10) — Club Leader, Lead Graphic Designer & Lead Social Media Manager: Organized advocacy campaigns, school-wide presentations, club meetings, and [City] Advocacy Day participation with 15+ attendees. Lobbied directly to state legislators in [capitol] for gun-sense legislation and helped advocate for the [Bill], which later passed the [state] Assembly. Established a partnership with a city civics nonprofit to bring civics education to my school
  2. District Attorney’s Youth Advisory Council (10) — Committee Chair & Committee Member: Led outreach for the Inclusive Curriculum Committee, coordinated partnerships with city civic organizations, and organized meetings with county educational leadership to discuss inclusive curriculum initiatives. Also chaired the Including Youth Voice in Restorative Justice Practices Committee and developed a policy proposal to include youth input in restorative justice practices. Invited to present policy work at the [Redacted] 20th Anniversary Youth Empowerment Summit (~1500–2000 attendees expected).
  3. Yale Policy Institute High School Fellowship (10) — Fellow: One of ~40 students selected internationally for a competitive policy fellowship. Researched structural and environmental racism, wrote a policy memo, and was selected to present at the Yale Policy Institute Conference.
  4. City Civic Nonprofit Internship (10) — High School Intern: Developed and coordinated civic engagement presentations focused on voting access, advocacy, and personalized voting plans, with plans for expansion across [city] schools.
  5. City Theatre Civic Leadership Program (10) — Participant: One of 48 students selected across [city] to participate in a civic leadership and policy development program under mentorship from institutions including [Top LAC]. Currently developing a policy proposal to increase accessibility and awareness of third spaces for youth which I will present to city officials.
  6. Mock Trial (10) — Defense Voir Dire Attorney Competed in local mock trial competitions, learned courtroom procedure and legal strategy, and helped the team earn first place in competition.
  7. Model Congress (10) — Mentor & Parliamentarian Mentored middle school students in debate, bill-writing, and public speaking. Selected as Co-Parliamentarian in a city-wide competition. [club started this year]
  8. Model United Nations (9–10) — Delegate Participated in regional conferences, collaborated on working papers, and developed diplomacy and public speaking skills.
  9. Church Leadership & Community Service (8–10) — Youth Treasurer, Event Organizer, Volunteer Completed 100+ volunteer hours helping organize community outreach events, including health fairs, job fairs with immigration services, school supply drives, and charity initiatives.

Awards/Honors

  1. National Honor Society 💀
  2. Local Mock Trial Competition — First Place 💀
  3. Michael Gordon Foundation Award (Nominated and Selected)
  4. Yale Policy Institute Certificate of Completion + Invitation to Present Mock One-pager policy memo
  5. Invitation to Speak and Be Recognized for community leadership at [Redacted] Annual Youth Empowerment Summit

Essays

  • Planning my Common App essay topic to be: 
    • In one line: Journal reflection on something my aunt told me, “Being slaves in the mind but physically free,” and how that reflection pushed me to study politics and pursue public policy
    • Structure: Format would show the progression of my thoughts, feelings, and actions through different mediums regarding this idea + integrating my love for policy and poli sci (along with history and literature) in it

I expect at least one of my policy proposals to be adopted based on current feedback and its implementability, and I have recently applied to the Youth Advocacy Organization's National Training Team. I am planning to do an internship at the DA's office and conduct some form of research over the summer (any tips on how to get one?). Next year (when I'm of age), I am applying to be part of a local governing body as a fully voting member (if accepted, I will be the only member who is a youth on the board) and am hoping to become a committee or board (absolute crapshot) chair by senior year.

Is there anything else I should do or any criticisms?

(If you know me, you don't)

reddit.com
u/Aromatic_Baker_9694 — 12 days ago

I'm a sophomore aiming for top universities and LACs (Georgetown is my absolute dream) mainly want to see how strong my current profile is and get advice on my next steps.

Demographics

  • Gender: Female
  • Race/Ethnicity: Black Haitian American
  • Residence: Metropolitan Northeast area
  • Income Bracket: (I'm not sure, but I know I'm middle class and need aid) $60,000-100,000
  • Type of School: Very Small (~200 kids) Private Independent School (with lots of t50 and t20 acceptances)
  • Hooks (Recruited Athlete, URM, First-Gen, Geographic, Legacy, etc.): None

Intended Major(s): Public Policy, Philosophy Politics and Economics (or any variation)

Academics

  • GPA (UW/W): 3.87 UW (94.79% overall average through first three quarters)
  • Rank (or percentile): [School does not rank]
  • # of Honors/AP/IB/Dual Enrollment/etc: [N/A, school doesn't allow until junior year, and there is a 3 AP max with the opportunity waiver for a 4th, you can waive 1 AP sophomore year, but I did not know that)
  • Junior Year Course Load: AP Art History, AP Lang, AP African American, Calc I, Biology, Spanish III
  • Senior Year Course Load: [N/A, aiming for 4 APs: AP Lit, AP Gov, AP Psych, idk 4th. Also planning to take Advanced 2-D art, which my school doesn't count as an AP]

Current Coursework

  • Advanced Algebra II & Precalculus — A- (90.74%)
  • American Literature — A- (92.96%)
  • United States History — A (96.05%)
  • Chemistry — A (93.33%)
  • Spanish II — A+ (98.71%)
  • 2-D Studio Art — A+ (99.09%)
  • Physical Education — A- (92.67%)

Standardized Testing

  • SAT I: Preparing; aiming for 1500+
  • ACT: N/A
  • SAT II: N/A
  • AP/IB: N/A currently
  • Other (ex. IELTS, TOEFL, etc.): N/A

Extracurriculars/Activities

  1. Youth Advocacy Club (9–10) — Club Leader, Lead Graphic Designer & Lead Social Media Manager: Organized advocacy campaigns, school-wide presentations, club meetings, and [City] Advocacy Day participation with 15+ attendees. Lobbied directly to state legislators in [capitol] for gun-sense legislation and helped advocate for the [Bill], which later passed the [state] Assembly. Established a partnership with a city civics nonprofit to bring civics education to my school
  2. District Attorney’s Youth Advisory Council (10) — Committee Chair & Committee Member: Led outreach for the Inclusive Curriculum Committee, coordinated partnerships with city civic organizations, and organized meetings with county educational leadership to discuss inclusive curriculum initiatives. Also chaired the Including Youth Voice in Restorative Justice Practices Committee and developed a policy proposal to include youth input in restorative justice practices. Invited to present policy work at the [Redacted] 20th Anniversary Youth Empowerment Summit (~1500–2000 attendees expected).
  3. Yale Policy Institute High School Fellowship (10) — Fellow: One of ~40 students selected internationally for a competitive policy fellowship. Researched structural and environmental racism, wrote a policy memo, and was selected to present at the Yale Policy Institute Conference.
  4. City Civic Nonprofit Internship (10) — High School Intern: Developed and coordinated civic engagement presentations focused on voting access, advocacy, and personalized voting plans, with plans for expansion across [city] schools.
  5. City Theatre Civic Leadership Program (10) — Participant: One of 48 students selected across [city] to participate in a civic leadership and policy development program under mentorship from institutions including [Top LAC]. Currently developing a policy proposal to increase accessibility and awareness of third spaces for youth which I will present to city officials.
  6. Mock Trial (10) — Defense Voir Dire Attorney Competed in local mock trial competitions, learned courtroom procedure and legal strategy, and helped the team earn first place in competition.
  7. Model Congress (10) — Mentor & Parliamentarian Mentored middle school students in debate, bill-writing, and public speaking. Selected as Co-Parliamentarian in a city-wide competition. [club started this year]
  8. Model United Nations (9–10) — Delegate Participated in regional conferences, collaborated on working papers, and developed diplomacy and public speaking skills.
  9. Church Leadership & Community Service (8–10) — Youth Treasurer, Event Organizer, Volunteer Completed 100+ volunteer hours helping organize community outreach events, including health fairs, job fairs with immigration services, school supply drives, and charity initiatives.

Awards/Honors

  1. National Honor Society 💀
  2. Local Mock Trial Competition — First Place 💀
  3. Michael Gordon Foundation Award (Nominated and Selected)
  4. Yale Policy Institute Certificate of Completion + Invitation to Present Mock One-pager policy memo
  5. Invitation to Speak and Be Recognized for community leadership at [Redacted] Annual Youth Empowerment Summit

Essays

  • Planning my Common App essay topic to be: 
    • In one line: Journal reflection on something my aunt told me, “Being slaves in the mind but physically free,” and how that reflection pushed me to study politics and pursue public policy
    • Structure: Format would show the progression of my thoughts, feelings, and actions through different mediums regarding this idea + integrating my love for policy and poli sci (along with history and literature) in it

I expect at least one of my policy proposals to be adopted based on current feedback and its implementability, and I have recently applied to the Youth Advocacy Organization's National Training Team. I am planning to do an internship at the DA's office and conduct some form of research over the summer (any tips on how to get one?). Next year (when I'm of age), I am applying to be part of a local governing body as a fully voting member (if accepted, I will be the only member who is a youth on the board) and am hoping to become a committee or board (absolute crapshot) chair by senior year.

Is there anything else I should do or any criticisms?

(If you know me, you don't)

reddit.com
u/Aromatic_Baker_9694 — 12 days ago

I'm a sophomore aiming for top universities and LACs (Georgetown is my absolute dream), and mainly want to see how strong my current profile is and get advice on my next steps.

**Demographics**

* Gender: Female
* Race/Ethnicity: Black Haitian American
* Residence: Metropolitan Northeast area
* Income Bracket: (I'm not sure, but I know I'm middle class and need aid) $60,000-$100,000
* Type of School: Very Small (\~200 kids) Independent College Prep School (about half the graduating class gets accepted to colleges upwards t50)
* Hooks (Recruited Athlete, URM, First-Gen, Geographic, Legacy, etc.): None, I think (does being 1st gen American count)

**Intended Major(s):** Public Policy, Philosophy Politics and Economics (PPE or any variation)

# Academics

* GPA (UW/W): 3.87 UW (94.79% overall average through first three quarters)
* Rank (or percentile): \[School does not rank\]
* \# of Honors/AP/IB/Dual Enrollment/etc: \[N/A, school doesn't allow until junior year, and there is a 3 AP max with the opportunity waiver for a 4th, you can waive for 1 AP sophomore year, but I did not know that)
* Junior Year Course Load: AP Art History, AP Lang, AP African American, Calc I, Biology, Spanish III
* Senior Year Course Load: \[N/A, aiming for 4 APs: AP Lit, AP Gov, AP Psych, idk 4th. Also planning to take Advanced 2-D art, which my school doesn't count as an AP\]

# Current Coursework

* Advanced Algebra II & Precalculus — A- (90.74%)
* American Literature — A- (92.96%)
* United States History — A (96.05%)
* Chemistry — A (93.33%)
* Spanish II — A+ (98.71%)
* 2-D Studio Art — A+ (99.09%)
* Physical Education — A- (92.67%)

# Standardized Testing

* SAT I: Preparing; aiming for 1500+
* ACT: N/A
* SAT II: N/A
* AP/IB: N/A currently
* Other (ex. IELTS, TOEFL, etc.): N/A

# Extracurriculars/Activities

  1. **District Attorney’s Youth Advisory Council (10) — Committee Chair & Committee Member:** Led outreach for the Inclusive Curriculum Committee, coordinated partnerships with city civic organizations, and organized meetings with county educational leadership to discuss inclusive curriculum initiatives. Also chaired the Including Youth Voice in Diversion Practices Committee and developed a policy proposal to include youth input in restorative justice practices. Invited to present policy work at the \[Redacted\] 20th Anniversary Youth Empowerment Summit (\~1500–2000 attendees expected).
  2. **Youth Advocacy Club (9–10) — Club Leader, Lead Graphic Designer & Lead Social Media Manager:** Organized advocacy campaigns, school-wide presentations, club meetings, and \[City\] Advocacy Day participation with 15+ attendees. Lobbied directly to state legislators in \[capitol\] for gun-sense legislation and helped advocate for the \[Bill\], which later passed the \[state\] Assembly. Established a partnership with a city civics nonprofit to bring civics education to my school
  3. **Yale Policy Institute High School Fellowship (10) — Fellow:** One of \~40 students selected internationally for a competitive policy fellowship. Researched structural and environmental racism, wrote a policy memo, and was selected to present at the Yale Policy Institute Conference.
  4. **City Civic Nonprofit Internship (10) — High School Intern:** Developed and coordinated civic engagement presentations focused on voting access, advocacy, and personalized voting plans, with plans for expansion across \[city\] schools.
  5. **City Theatre Civic Leadership Program (10) — Participant:** One of 48 students selected across the city to participate in a civic leadership and policy development program under mentorship from institutions including \[Top LAC\]. Currently developing a policy proposal about improving accessibility and awareness of third spaces for youth to present to city officials.
  6. **Mock Trial (10) — Defense Voir Dire Attorney:** Competed in a local mock trial competition, learned courtroom procedure and legal strategy, and helped the team earn first place in the competition.
  7. **Model Congress (10) — Mentor & Parliamentarian:** Mentored middle school students in debate, bill-writing, and public speaking. Selected as Co-Parliamentarian in a city-wide competition. \[club started this year\]
  8. **Model United Nations (9–10) — Delegate:** Participated in regional conferences, collaborated on working papers, and developed diplomacy and public speaking skills.
  9. **Church Leadership & Community Service (8–10) — Youth Treasurer, Event Organizer, Volunteer:** Completed 100+ volunteer hours helping organize community outreach events, including health fairs, job fairs with immigration services, school supply drives, and charity initiatives.

# Awards/Honors

  1. National Honor Society 💀
  2. Local Mock Trial Competition — First Place 💀
  3. Michael Gordon Foundation Award (Nominated and Selected)
  4. Yale Policy Institute Certificate of Completion + Invitation to Present Mock One-pager policy memo
  5. Invitation to Speak and Be Recognized for community leadership at \[Redacted\] Annual Youth Empowerment Summit

# Essays

* **Planning my Common App essay topic to be**: 
* **In one line**: Journal reflection on something my aunt told me, “Being slaves in the mind but physically free,” and how that reflection pushed me to study politics and pursue public policy
* **Structure:** Format would show the progression of my thoughts, feelings, and actions through different mediums regarding this idea + integrating my love for policy and poli sci (along with history and literature) in it

**Current planned steps and expectations:**

I expect at least one of my policy proposals to be adopted based on current feedback and its implementability, and I have recently applied to the Youth Advocacy Organization's National Training Team. I am planning to do an internship at the DA's office and conduct some form of research over the summer (any tips on how to get one?). Next year (when I'm of age), I am applying to be part of a local governing body as a fully voting member (if accepted, I will be the only member who is a youth on the board) and am hoping to become a committee or board (absolute crapshot) chair by senior year.

Is there anything else I should do or any criticisms?

(If you know me, you don't)

reddit.com
u/Aromatic_Baker_9694 — 12 days ago

I'm a sophomore aiming for top universities and LACs (Georgetown is my absolute dream), and mainly want to see how strong my current profile is and get advice on my next steps.

Demographics

  • Gender: Female
  • Race/Ethnicity: Black Haitian American
  • Residence: Metropolitan Northeast area
  • Income Bracket: (I'm not sure, but I know I'm middle class and need aid) $60,000-$100,000
  • Type of School: Very Small (~200 kids) Independent College Prep School (about half the graduating class gets accepted to colleges upwards t50)
  • Hooks (Recruited Athlete, URM, First-Gen, Geographic, Legacy, etc.): None, I think (does being 1st gen American count)

Intended Major(s): Public Policy, Philosophy Politics and Economics (PPE or any variation)

Academics

  • GPA (UW/W): 3.87 UW (94.79% overall average through first three quarters)
  • Rank (or percentile): [School does not rank]
  • # of Honors/AP/IB/Dual Enrollment/etc: [N/A, school doesn't allow until junior year, and there is a 3 AP max with the opportunity waiver for a 4th, you can waive for 1 AP sophomore year, but I did not know that)
  • Junior Year Course Load: AP Art History, AP Lang, AP African American, Calc I, Biology, Spanish III
  • Senior Year Course Load: [N/A, aiming for 4 APs: AP Lit, AP Gov, AP Psych, idk 4th. Also planning to take Advanced 2-D art, which my school doesn't count as an AP]

Current Coursework

  • Advanced Algebra II & Precalculus — A- (90.74%)
  • American Literature — A- (92.96%)
  • United States History — A (96.05%)
  • Chemistry — A (93.33%)
  • Spanish II — A+ (98.71%)
  • 2-D Studio Art — A+ (99.09%)
  • Physical Education — A- (92.67%)

Standardized Testing

  • SAT I: Preparing; aiming for 1500+
  • ACT: N/A
  • SAT II: N/A
  • AP/IB: N/A currently
  • Other (ex. IELTS, TOEFL, etc.): N/A

Extracurriculars/Activities

  1. District Attorney’s Youth Advisory Council (10) — Committee Chair & Committee Member: Led outreach for the Inclusive Curriculum Committee, coordinated partnerships with city civic organizations, and organized meetings with county educational leadership to discuss inclusive curriculum initiatives. Also chaired the Including Youth Voice in Diversion Practices Committee and developed a policy proposal to include youth input in restorative justice practices. Invited to present policy work at the [Redacted] 20th Anniversary Youth Empowerment Summit (~1500–2000 attendees expected).
  2. Youth Advocacy Club (9–10) — Club Leader, Lead Graphic Designer & Lead Social Media Manager: Organized advocacy campaigns, school-wide presentations, club meetings, and [City] Advocacy Day participation with 15+ attendees. Lobbied directly to state legislators in [capitol] for gun-sense legislation and helped advocate for the [Bill], which later passed the [state] Assembly. Established a partnership with a city civics nonprofit to bring civics education to my school
  3. Yale Policy Institute High School Fellowship (10) — Fellow: One of ~40 students selected internationally for a competitive policy fellowship. Researched structural and environmental racism, wrote a policy memo, and was selected to present at the Yale Policy Institute Conference.
  4. City Civic Nonprofit Internship (10) — High School Intern: Developed and coordinated civic engagement presentations focused on voting access, advocacy, and personalized voting plans, with plans for expansion across [city] schools.
  5. City Theatre Civic Leadership Program (10) — Participant: One of 48 students selected across the city to participate in a civic leadership and policy development program under mentorship from institutions including [Top LAC]. Currently developing a policy proposal about improving accessibility and awareness of third spaces for youth to present to city officials.
  6. Mock Trial (10) — Defense Voir Dire Attorney: Competed in a local mock trial competition, learned courtroom procedure and legal strategy, and helped the team earn first place in the competition.
  7. Model Congress (10) — Mentor & Parliamentarian: Mentored middle school students in debate, bill-writing, and public speaking. Selected as Co-Parliamentarian in a city-wide competition. [club started this year]
  8. Model United Nations (9–10) — Delegate: Participated in regional conferences, collaborated on working papers, and developed diplomacy and public speaking skills.
  9. Church Leadership & Community Service (8–10) — Youth Treasurer, Event Organizer, Volunteer: Completed 100+ volunteer hours helping organize community outreach events, including health fairs, job fairs with immigration services, school supply drives, and charity initiatives.

Awards/Honors

  1. National Honor Society 💀
  2. Local Mock Trial Competition — First Place 💀
  3. Michael Gordon Foundation Award (Nominated and Selected)
  4. Yale Policy Institute Certificate of Completion + Invitation to Present Mock One-pager policy memo
  5. Invitation to Speak and Be Recognized for community leadership at [Redacted] Annual Youth Empowerment Summit

Essays

  • Planning my Common App essay topic to be
    • In one line: Journal reflection on something my aunt told me, “Being slaves in the mind but physically free,” and how that reflection pushed me to study politics and pursue public policy
    • Structure: Format would show the progression of my thoughts, feelings, and actions through different mediums regarding this idea + integrating my love for policy and poli sci (along with history and literature) in it

Current planned steps and expectations:

I expect at least one of my policy proposals to be adopted based on current feedback and its implementability, and I have recently applied to the Youth Advocacy Organization's National Training Team. I am planning to do an internship at the DA's office and conduct some form of research over the summer (any tips on how to get one?). Next year (when I'm of age), I am applying to be part of a local governing body as a fully voting member (if accepted, I will be the only member who is a youth on the board) and am hoping to become a committee or board (absolute crapshot) chair by senior year.

Is there anything else I should do or any criticisms?

(If you know me, you don't)

reddit.com
u/Aromatic_Baker_9694 — 13 days ago