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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I think many of you are over thinking. It’s just a high school program. They understand many middle schoolers are not exposed to computer science or math/science competitions. I also don’t think they care much about the essay. As long as the applicant doesn’t write hating math or science, I doubt the essay will make any difference. [/quote]

In that case, I’ll ask again, what does make a difference? They literally have only MAP M and the most recent math and science grades, plus the essay. Given that many kids will have high MAP-m scores and As in geometry and science, what is differentiating kids if it’s not the essay?[/quote]

I disagree with pp about essays and awards. I think, especially without recs, essays become more important to know a student's character and interests.  Also, kids do have activities and potential for awards. ECs point to the whole student. Awards give a record of achievement to augment map and grades. Every ms kid can do science fair. Mine both had science fair awards when they applied. And, this is another place to show what the student can bring to the program.  Mine had performing arts accolades.  STEM programs are interested in "out of the box" thinkers and like kids with arts activities/awards.

Also,  if you have a girl, I highly recommend Technica. It's a huge all girl (or female identifying) hackathon hosted by umd. I think it just happened this year and was partly online. But, hopefully will be back next fall in person.  It's a giant comp sci slumber party with tons of awards and swag (and a chocolate fountain). And it's a very supportive,  cooperative environment.  My kid went by herself in 7th grade and won a bunch of hardware for a website she made. She went with a friend the next year and had a blast.  The 7th grade win definitely went on her magnet app![/quote]

We have never been offered a science fair in MS. [/quote]

You don't need to be offered. You can sign up through Science Montgomery.  It's county wide. Any MoCo student can enter.[/quote]

That's not MCPS and they charge a fee.  [/quote]

I never said it was mcps. I said Science Montgomery and that any MoCo student (not just mcps) can enter.[/quote]

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