Can I get into UCLA or UC Berkeley?

How do i get into a good UC school (UCLA, Uc Berkeley...)?

• I am a freshman in highschool and i want to get into a good UC school, like UC Berkeley or UCLA. I am currently taking Algebra 2, Spanish 1, English, history, int. science, drama, and p.e. My current gpa is a 4.75 My school does not offer 9th grade honor classes, but i am planning to take 3 or 4 honor classes and an AP class next year I also do a few extra carricular activites like musical theater, karate and I play the viola. I am part of the red cross club at my school , and i want to be the vice president mabey junior and senior year. I also have started community service and plan to do alot more. Do i have a good start to get into a good UC school? What else do i need to do?

• Answer:

  Yes -- you have a good start. Keep getting good grades, take lots of AP and Honors classes, and you will get into some great school. There are other things that will help. High SAT scores and participation in activities help. To help make yourself stand out from other applicants, a killer admissions essay will also be needed. You have plenty of time -- but it is good that you are thinking about this now.