<p>I don’t want to say that grades aren’t important, but they’re certainly not as big a deal as you’re making it. The “holistic” (haha) approach will consider grades, but try to place more of an emphasis on your EC’s instead or something pleasant if you really can’t do anything about your classes. You’ve already tried the best you can for what it’s worth, and that should say something about your applying these positive characteristics towards other endeavors. Don’t worry about it! I know that anecdotal evidence doesn’t always afford the best comfort, but I know plenty of people who’ve made it into HYPSM and who knows where else with plenty of B’s (seriously). Just don’t let it affect you overall, as there are many many more things that admissions will be looking at. I know this is just a regurgitation of every other piece of advice ever offered to college hopefuls, but I hope this helps.</p>