🍦So what is this about Case Western? (Dec 7)

Good morning folks! Here’s the lineup today:

1. Info Zone Refresh: Learn more about Case Western in their fun Q&A with students this Sunday!

2. Daily Deep Dive: Case Western Reserve University

3. Admission Blueprint: Balancing apps, senior year, and fun

TRIVIA
🐿️ Squirrels??!

This university has an interesting organization known as The Squirrel Club. It has over 400 members made up of students, alumni, and members of the community. So what exactly does this club do? They get together every Sunday during fall and winter semesters to, guess what – feed squirrels. They raise funds to buy peanuts by selling T-shirts. Non-club members are also welcome to join them on these squirrel-feeding expeditions.

INFO ZONE
Refresh: Learn more about Case Western this Sunday!

Here’s some upcoming school virtual information sessions. These are great opportunities to learn more about school’s programs to determine if the school is a right fit for you. It’s also great to learn more about the school’s vibe and possibly what admissions officers are looking for. All the times listed are below are already converted into Pacific.

Email a Current Dartmouth Student - direct contact info for a current Dartmouth student; any time and any day

Brown University Pre-Recorded Info Sessions - any time and any day

UChicago Virtual Campus Tour - Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 12:00 PM

(NEW) Q&A with Case Western students - Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 4:00 PM until 5:00 PM

Rice Virtual Admission Information Session - Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM

DAILY DEEP DIVE
All about Case Western Reserve University (CWRU)!

I've heard a little here and there about Case Western Reserve University. Can you tell me more about it?

Case Western is definitely one of those schools that doesn’t always get shouted out in the big-name lists, but once you dig into it, you’re like, why isn’t everyone talking about this place?!

Here’s what you need to know:

• Location: It’s in Cleveland, Ohio—not exactly what comes to mind first for college hotspots, but hear me out. The campus is in University Circle, Cleveland’s cultural epicenter, so you’re surrounded by museums (hello, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame!), theaters, amazing food, and even pro sports. Plus, you’ve got Lake Erie nearby for a little waterfront vibe.

• Academics: Case is a powerhouse, especially in STEM. About 24% of students study engineering, another 9% are in computer science, and 13% are in biological and biomedical sciences. So, if you’re thinking tech, healthcare, or engineering, this is the place. They also make it super easy to get involved in research, especially with their strong connections to Cleveland Clinic.

• Class Size: With a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you’ll get a mix of small, discussion-heavy classes and some bigger lecture vibes. Almost half of the classes (49%) have fewer than 20 students, so you can really connect with professors and classmates.

• Campus Vibe: It’s collaborative, nerdy in the best way, and full of people who love geeking out over what they’re passionate about. It’s a great spot if you want to avoid cutthroat competition. To be honest though, they aren’t really known for much a social or party scene.

• Unique Stuff: Case has this insane makerspace called think[box]. It’s the largest open-access innovation center in the U.S., and you can literally design, build, and prototype whatever your imagination can cook up. Seriously, it’s a game-changer if you’re a builder or creator.

Okay, that's cool. If I want to apply, what should I know before I begin?

Here’s what you should know if you’re thinking about applying to Case Western Reserve University:

• Admission Rate: Around 27%, so it’s selective but not out of reach with strong grades and extracurriculars.

• Application Deadlines:

  • Early Decision II: January 15

  • Regular Decision: January 15

• Testing Policy: Case is test-optional, so you decide whether to submit your SAT/ACT scores. (For reference, the average SAT is 1475, and the average ACT is 33.)

• NO SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAYS: Unless you’re applying for conditional admission to the School of Medicine or Dental Medicine, there are no supplemental essays—just your personal statement.

So, if they don’t have any additional essays—what are they looking for?

Case Western values students who love learning and aren’t afraid to explore different fields and (fortunately or unfortunately) you really have to show that through things you’ve already completed like academics, extracurriculars, and the personal statement.

To sum it up: Case Western—great STEM school with no supplemental essays!

LINK LOUNGE
New ways to get in touch with Brown and Dartmouth!

Here’s some upcoming school virtual information sessions. These are great opportunities to learn more about school’s programs to determine if the school is a right fit for you. It’s also great to learn more about the school’s vibe and possibly what admissions officers are looking for. All the times listed are below are already converted into Pacific.

(NEW) Email a Current Dartmouth Student - direct contact info for a current Dartmouth student; any time and any day

(NEW) Brown University Pre-Recorded Info Sessions - any time and any day

Wharton Undergraduate Virtual Information Session - Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 5:00 PM until 6:00 PM

Columbia University Info Session - Friday, December 6, 2024 at 7:00 AM until 8:00 AM

UChicago Virtual Campus Tour - Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 12:00 PM

Rice Virtual Admission Information Session - Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM

ADMISSION BLUEPRINT
Balancing apps, senior year, and fun

🎢 Balancing Apps, Senior Year, and Fun

Senior year is a rollercoaster—college applications, schoolwork, extracurriculars, and, of course, the desire to make the most of your final year with friends. Here’s how to strike a balance and keep your sanity intact:

🎯 Set Priorities

Your college applications are important, but so are your grades, relationships, and mental health. Create a realistic timeline for application deadlines, balancing it with academic and social commitments. Apps like Notion or Google Calendar can help you plan everything out.

⏳ Use Time Blocks

Dedicate specific time slots to different activities. For example:

• Applications: Work on essays or forms after school when your brain is fresh.

• Schoolwork: Reserve evenings for homework or test prep.

• Social time: Spend weekends or lighter days with friends.

Time blocks keep you productive without overloading any one area.

🎉 Make Time for Fun

It’s your last year—don’t forget to live it! Whether it’s attending school events, hanging out with friends, or participating in traditions, these moments matter just as much as college acceptances. Schedule time for fun, so it feels guilt-free.

🧘 Prioritize Self-Care

Burnout is real. Ensure you:

• Get enough sleep (aim for 7–8 hours).

• Stay active with exercise or walks.

• Find calming activities like journaling, music, or meditation.

A healthy mind is your best tool for success.

📚 Collaborate, Don’t Compete

Work with your friends! Proofread each other’s essays, prep for tests together, or just share the ups and downs. Remember, you’re all navigating this process together—support each other rather than comparing accomplishments.

💡 Final Tip: Celebrate the Small Wins

Whether you hit “submit” on an application, ace a test, or simply finish your to-do list for the day, take a moment to celebrate. Progress is progress, and every step counts.

Balancing everything might feel overwhelming, but with a plan in place, you can manage it all—and still have time to enjoy the journey. After all, senior year only happens once!

TRIVIA ANSWER
Looking for the answer to our fun trivia question up at the top?

Answer: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

DAILY DEADLINE UPDATES
Take that break but mind your deadlines!

In the Daily Deadlines section, we will keep you updated on upcoming deadlines in the college admissions world. Remember to not procrastinate and stay ahead of these deadlines!

December SAT: December 7
Most ED/REA Acceptances: December 15th

THE ARCHIVE
Looking for past mailings?

You can view all our previous posts at our website at https://scholarscoops.beehiiv.com

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