<p>skate,</p>
<p>Do you have a good reason for the “C” in Calculus AB? Maybe you are just not that strong in math (especially at a higher level such as AP Calculus)? </p>
<p>Just around this time last year, we were also “panicking” about sonny’s B in Calc BC after his record of getting generally all As in school. We actually caught the problem earlier in the semester and got him tutoring (he was probably getting C+ to B- before the tutoring in Calc BC). The teacher he had was just not teaching the subject the right way for him to get it. We found a tutor who was actually a Calc BC teacher in the neighboring High School and sonny started doing problems right. He ended up with a A- at the end of senior year in Calc BC (which really did not matter since he had already gotten accepted into NYU CAS with a scholarship by the time he raised himself to the highest Calc BC grade all year).</p>
<p>I was concerned about the B in Calc BC mid-year (I think it was a 85). Anyway, sonny still got a scholarship from NYU because the rest of his record was very strong.</p>
<p>(As an aside, it also occurs to me that for the students with true potential, even setbacks can be used as learning and as motivation to do better and to work harder to address any deficits (separate from whatever college the student eventually gets into). Of course, environmental support, like getting tutoring helps. So, money and the ability to afford tutoring comes into play, unless you are fortunate enough to have free or volunteer tutoring where you are.)</p>
<p>1) It seems to me there is some give with NYU Admissions when it comes to one or two things that go wrong. However, you are talking about 2 Bs and 1 C. I think it will be a good idea to mention the “C” and give some “explanation” in order to contrast it with your strengths.</p>
<p>2) You were smart to choose the program that seems the least driven by scores and grades, Steinhardt School. That may allow you a little more room to wriggle in.</p>
<p>3) I think your 3.63 UW GPA prior to senior year may be average for NYU (that is to say, not too shabby on your part). You really should concentrate on your essay and stress the importance of good rec letters by your recommenders and/or try to get the best, most supportive people to write for you. If the recs you got already are strong, then that is good. It seems to me that your application may now depend on how you can impress them with the more “subjective” elements, like your character, personality, motivation, aspirations, and leadership ability.</p>
<p>4) I am not sure what taking the class at a cc at this point will do, because the C will come up in their review of your most recent grades (fall semester senior year). You just have to work on those areas that you still have control over (#3 right above), since the grades are a done deal.</p>
<p>I wish you well. Good luck in trying to still present yourself in the best light possible with those factors that are still under your control.</p>