4 GPA, 1550 SAT Environmental Science applicant accepted to University of South Carolina, Amsterdam University College, NTU

"For internationals: shotgun applications if possible; have backups outside the US (Canada, Netherlands, Australia, UK, Germany, Singapore, Hong Kong); there are no true safeties in US private colleges for aid-seeking internationals. For all: start essays early (she started in March, scrapped in June, finalized in October); beware post-ED burnout; research schools thoroughly to understand their core values and tailor your narrative; essays are very important. Never let acceptance rates discourage you from applying."