Evaluate GPA using these guidelines: 

Score based on the following:
5 for GPA 3.8-4.0 or top 10% of class; 
4 for GPA 3.3-3.79 or top 25%; 
3 for GPA 2.8-3.29 or top 50%; 
2 for GPA 2.3-2.79 or below 50%; 
1 for GPA below 2.3. 

Add +1 to score for strong upward trend (e.g., 2.5 to 3.5) or highly rigorous curriculum (IB, 5+ APs). Review GPA in context of school profile, note weighted vs. unweighted differences, and flag exceptional circumstances for staff review.​

Identify any trends in academic performance (e.g., improvement over time, declines, or consistency).

Score essays based on: 

5 for exceptional self-awareness with specific examples, clear program fit, unique perspective, and excellent writing; 

4 for good reflection, general institutional understanding, and solid writing; 

3 for basic content with limited examples and adequate writing; 

2 for generic content, poor writing, and no institutional connection; 

1 for off-topic, major writing issues, concerning content, or suspected plagiarism. 

Flag any mentions of mental health, trauma, or sensitive topics for careful staff review."

Academic Performance
Counselor letter reports a 3.75 GPA and a rigorous mix of AP/Honors courses, meeting the 3.5+ GPA with ≥3 advanced-level classes benchmark. The essay reiterates ongoing engagement with AP coursework and academic challenge. Performance appears steady with no dips. Within the 7-10 band, an 8 reflects strong but not extraordinary rigor.

Standardized Test Scores
All documents list the applicant as Patrick Cook/Patrick Eric Cook, and other details do not conflict, so verification passes. No SAT/ACT scores appear in the application or other files. Because the institution permits applicants to apply test-optional, the absence of scores does not reduce the rating. With no evidence of low scores and no penalty for opting out, the applicant earns a solid “Strong” (3) for the standardized-test criterion.

Personal Statement/Essay Quality
The essay in is well-organized, flowing from a concrete anecdote (Habitat build) to broader reflections on leadership and academic interests. The writing is clear, grammatically sound, and demonstrates authenticity through specific examples such as launching mental-health campaigns and a cafeteria food-waste project. While engaging, the theme—service cultivating purpose—is familiar and the stylistic risks are modest, placing the piece solidly in the “Strong” rather than “Outstanding” range.

Extracurricular Activities 
The resume shows Patrick Cook is Vice President of the Environmental Club, a varsity soccer player, and a Habitat for Humanity volunteer, all demonstrating leadership and varied engagement. His essay further details leadership as Student Government Vice President and service through National Honor Society projects. The counselor confirms wide extracurricular involvement and positive impact on the school community. These multiple, leadership-oriented activities fully satisfy the top rating criteria.

• GPA 3.75 with rigorous AP/Honors load; steady performance → 8/10 
• Test-optional; no scores submitted, no penalty → 3/4 
• Essay well-structured, authentic, but familiar theme → 3/4 
• Extensive, leadership-focused extracurriculars (Environmental Club VP, varsity soccer, Student Gov VP, Habitat for Humanity) → 5/5 

Overall weighted score ≈82% of maximum, indicating strong fit and preparation.