Realistic goals for college?

: Realistic goals for college?
I’m currently a junior in highschool and my parents are giving me trouble about college as most do. I have a 90 average, have a 1850 SAT score and am in/have taken multiple AP classes like: U.S., Psych, Human Geography, Euro, World, Spanish and Language. Im very interested in and am very good at water sports which somewhat draw me to the idea of working in the ocean. Something like marine geology, physical oceanography or marine biology. Something that concerns me is that all the Ap classes i have taken are unrelated the any sort of science and that consistent 85-95’s may not be enough to get me into a good school and still study what i want. What do you think? What would be realistic expectations for schools? Is there any sort of chance i could get into University of Miami, Washington University at St. Louis, Pepperdine or berkley and study sciences?

Answers and Views:

Answer by ownpool
You record indicates that you will be admitted to a university which is good enough for you to enter a top graduate school after you receive your bachelor’s degree, and you will need a graduate degree for the careers you indicate.

Pepperdine is not a good place to study science. Berkeley (sp.) is not a good place for undergraduates to study most sciences as it is overcrowded and too many classes are taught by graduate student instructors, rather than by professors. It is also not worth undergraduate out of state tuition fees. Even if you are easily able to pay the fees, you can buy a better eduation at a private university for the same amount of money. I am sorry, but you will probably not qualify for Washington University in (not at) St. Louis due to the stated SAT score as well as the grade average. University of Miami is a fine school which is a bit of a reach for you, but it is worth an application if you are able to pay private school tuition. It is not worthwhile to take out loans to attend.

I am guessing from your report of your grades on a scale of 100, rather than 4.0, that you are a New York resident. You will receive a fine undergraduate education in the basic science of your choice at the best SUNY campus which admits you, or at the best campus of the university of your state of residence if you live elsewhere.

Cut down on the AP classes next semester and see if your average rises. An AP class should only be taken if the student can earn an A or the equivalent numerical score in it. A higher score in a regular class is better than a lower score in an AP class.

I also suggest that you get some coaching and retake the SAT. Also take the ACT which many students find to be easier.

Best wishes.