u/throwawaynyc02

Hi, I'm entering my sophomore year of high school and I am just feeling super stressed and behind. For reference in my state the high school process was really intense and I didn't prep properly (I also didn't have much help or guidance from my parents) so I ended up at a decent high school. I tried locking in and did about 3 EC programs throughout the year. My grades are pretty good (mid-high 90s) but I am just feeling super stressed. I want to go to a top college or an ivy which I know sounds like everyone else in the world but, I just feel like I am kind of behind. I have no awards or form of recognition but I am working towards this. I just wanted to rant but, I also hope I can get some advice?? For reference I did one engineering research based program, an academic year free coding program ( you learn game design coding) and a tech summer internship at a museum. I already know some kids who are doing science olympiads or getting medical internships for the academic year ( with no prior experience)?? Even though I literally check for free internships and programs daily as I also come from a financially disadvantaged background. I'm self-studying for PSAT and SAT so I can kind of save on tutoring and also hopefully qualify for national merit my junior year. I do play an instrument (violin) and I do TKD as a sport but I literally only started violin late in my 8th grade year so I know theres no way that that will help me get any kind of scholarships or programs. I don't know I just feel so stressed because its mostly me looking out for myself and I am aware that a lot of other kids do so much more with so much less but I feel like I am trying but just need a little bit of advice or encouragement. I feel super stressed and sorry if this is poorly written/ long I just kind of hope this will be a space where I can let out my academic frustration and get some advice. BTW my instrument is my passion I love playing I just wish that I had started earlier because I think it could've helped but I also know its on me to work hard and I am doing so I practice for about 2 hrs daily.

Hi, so I'm a rising 10th grader at Manhattan Village Academy. I got an offer to Millennium Manhattan. I don't really want to switch high schools but I want the best for my future. Will switching to Millennium give me more opportunities as it is slightly bigger?? I like my school and have friends here and i also have some EC's that are super close to me. I am more STEM based so I was wondering if anyone could give advice on if I should transfer. Also is it true that you have to be in grade 11 to take AP's at Millenium because thats not really appealing for me my current school offers a decent amount of AP's (17 I think??) and I will be taking around 3 maybe 4 this year. Please lmk also not rlly into sport and the sport I do is not offered at either schools so thats not a factor. I feel like the small community and opportunities my current school has are good but, I would just like some advice. I have until the 24th to accept the offer.