<p>Yorky, what does your S think of Richmond? That is the main barrier for me. I’ve heard Richmond is abnormally unsafe (even compared to other large cities).</p>
<p>My DS came from a suburban environment to the urban environment of Richmond. He took a few months to adjust to city life. He and his friends are not afraid to walk about campus but everyone takes precautions. At night, walk with a group. Do not leave your belongings lying around. (Theft is the biggest problem on campus.) </p>
<p>The campus police of VCU are extremely vigilant about student safety and I think you will be pleasantly surprised if you look at the crime statistics on and around the campus of VCU and compare them to other VA schools. (look under “Clery Report” at each university’s website.)</p>
<p>And there is lots to do in Richmond. So overall, I would say my DS started to enjoy Richmond after a few months of adjustment.</p>
<p>Hi CIA!
One of my guys is. . . strikingly like you. He does well on exams and is driven bonkers by homework that is more about compliance than skill building. </p>
<p>He’s off to one of our smaller state universities that is known to be a friendly place. His strong test scores and warm letters of reference helped win some scholarship dollars. He heeded my strong urgings to apply to some more selective schools . . . only to be rejected or wait listed. We should have paid MUCH more attention to the GPA’s typically taken at those schools. I’m not saying you shouldn’t fire off a shot at one of the more selective schools, but be smart and find a happy, strong alternative that consistently takes students with your stats. </p>
<p>I hope you will be frank with whatever teachers/coaches you approach for letters of reference. Tell them something like “my GPA is going to hurt me. I know that and am working on it. Anything you can throw in to help me along would be deeply appreciated”. The teacher isn’t going to know your full picture unless you tell him/her. If you take time to let them know that you are going to be a cliff hanger candidate, then they might pull out some extra stops on your letter. Give the teacher a copy of your resume and transcript so far so they have good material to draw from. </p>
<p>Keep in mind that College Confidential tends to be the haunt of the A++++ student/parents. Read the Desirata by Max Ehrmann. You are who you are and who you need to be. Please don’t go beating yourself up like the Ugly Duckling did when he was just starting out. Your A++++ days may be in the future when you find a college, a major and a collection of professors that truly suits you.</p>
<p>Brooklynborn dad is on to something. Consider NVCC for two years to build a record that will get some attention at the state schools. It may involve some busywork, however. If you don’t have time for busywork, you might want to look at VCU.</p>