A rather unique scenario...

Transfer Students
1

<p>I have a combined total gpa of 3.05 over 88 units from 4 different California community colleges (not to mention 8 W's, 1 NC, 4 F's). I'm in my third year at my primary community college (econ major), and I'm not sure whether to transfer to a Cal State this year (with far from spectacular grades, I might add) or wait another year to transfer to UCLA or Berkeley (with better grades earned from this semester and subsequent semesters). </p>

<p>If I choose the latter, I will have completed 4 years at a community college and 2 years at a 4-year university at the time of graduation, and I'm afraid this might jeopardize my chances of getting into a prestigious business school in the future. Why did I take 6 years to receive a bachelor's degree when others took 4? Also, by the time I leave my community college, I will have easily accumulated over 100 units so it would look like I was "padding" my gpa.</p>

<p>On the other hand, if I go with the first choice, I will have received my bachelor's in 5 years instead of 6 but at a somewhat less prestigious university.</p>

<p>I guess the ultimate question is whether time or prestige carries a heavier weight... </p>

<p>(If you took the time to read this, I really do appreciate it!)</p>

2

<p>Are you counting the Fs in with the 3.05 GPA? </p>

<p>What were the extenuating circumstances that caused you to earn Fs? I would guess that you weren't showing up, completing all the work, and applying yourself, but that something else was going on. Money issues? Family problems? Work conflicts? My best advice is to develop a coherent (and honest) narrative about why you have the non-traditional undergraduate record that you do, and play up the strengths that make you unique. Do you come from a disadvantaged background? Were you chronically ill? Sometimes the things you think will make you a less attractive candidate for transfer or grad school are related to the things that make you special and potentially attractive for a committee to take a chance on.</p>

<p>Definitely retake the classes you failed - an easy way to make a major difference in your GPA. And just remember that the most recent history is the most important to an admissions committee. Have you learned your lesson and made a complete about-face in your academic dedication and ability? If you have, chances are they will consider you no matter HOW long it took you to get as far as you have.</p>

<p>Good luck! It IS possible!</p>