Olympiads or Science Fairs: What Will Help Me Get Into Top US Schools?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the comparative value of participating in Olympiads versus science fairs for high school students aiming for admission to top US colleges like MIT, CalTech, and Harvard. Participants emphasize that while winning an Olympiad gold medal is prestigious, being a finalist in competitions like the Intel or Siemens science fairs can also significantly enhance a candidate's profile. The consensus is that college admissions are holistic, considering various achievements beyond just competition results.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of high school-level physics and mathematics, including calculus.
  • Familiarity with major science competitions such as the International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) and Intel/Siemens science fairs.
  • Knowledge of college admissions processes in the United States.
  • Awareness of the holistic nature of college applications.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the requirements and benefits of participating in the International Physics Olympiad (IPhO).
  • Explore the application process and criteria for Intel and Siemens science fairs.
  • Investigate the holistic admissions process at top US colleges.
  • Learn about additional extracurricular activities that enhance college applications.
USEFUL FOR

High school students, particularly those in India, aspiring to gain admission to prestigious US colleges, as well as educators and parents seeking guidance on effective preparation strategies for competitive college admissions.

cooleinstein
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I am a high school student in India . I finished grade 10 this year . I have completed phyiscs upto the level of RESNICK HALLIDAY , i learned all high school mathematics and Single variable calculus . I want to go to US for college . So i want to get into schools like MIT/CalTech/harvard etc . But as these schools are very selective one needs to be highly accomplished to get into these schools .

I want to do something more than school stuff so i want to participate in olympiads or science fairs .

So i want to know which candidate will have a better chance of getting in , one with a olympiad gold or someone who is a GOOGLE/INTEL science fair finalist .

So give me some guidance​
 
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I feel as though it's less competitive to be an Intel/Siemens finalist than it is to win an olympiad gold medal. Though the question is, are you sure that you can do either? And why can't you pursue both options?

By the way, I got less than a gold medal at IPhO, and I still got into every college to which I applied. College admissions are holistic.
 
Yeah thanks man...anyone has any other opinion on this...please help
 

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