<p>Well i was wondering if i even have a chance at ucla or ucb. Iam a bio major trying to apply in fal 2010. My cumulative gpa is around a 2.8 but my transferable is around a 3.6, i took a bunch of non transferable classes when i first started college and didnt do to well, now that iam serious about school there has been a uptrend in my gpa. So far for y major prep i have taken the genreal chem series with all A's and the first general bio with a B, so you guys think maybe i have a chance? Also i would be first generation to go to college, i come from a very low income family (neither parent works), and i think i would be considered a minority.</p>
<p>as long as you show a strong uptrend maybe. i mean the bad grades early on might hurt you. but if you explain all that in your essays and keep doing well. you may have a chance. its hard for anyone to know</p>
<p>thanks man i appreciate the positive outlook</p>
<p>It’s hard to say but I think your upward trend will work with you. Clearly explain why you did poorly in the past and how you have overcome that obstacle. Try to keep getting those A’s.</p>
<p>This may sound a little opportunistic, but there are programs at UCLA and Cal that don’t require you to have a 3.5+. If you really want to get in, I suggest you look closely at those, and avoid the heavily impacted majors (business/econ, engineering, etc.).</p>
<p>I’ve heard that with a 3.5+ in a not-so-competitive major is pretty much a shoe in.</p>
<p>Surely, those majors are unpopular for a reason~</p>
<p>let me ask you guys, what do you think if i write in my about my former gang affiliation?</p>
<p>I say mention the gang affiliation in the personal statement. THAT IS life experience. Definitely explain why you were in it, and how you’ve grown as a person and developed since that time in your life.</p>
<p>You have a strong chance at both schools. Get all A’s in the fall and you’re in.</p>