<p>I am going to be applying for colleges next year and my grades really aren't where they should be. My father was diagnosed with terminal cancer my freshman year and I've had trouble focusing on academics in general. My GPA has lingered around 3.5 UW for the past two years and I think I'm going to have a lot of trouble applying for colleges next year. My weighted GPA is around 4.1 but it isn't put on the transcript and is only used for class rank (top 10%). My ACT/SAT aren't great either, but they're not horrendous, I scored 32 on the ACT Sophomore year and 2150 on the SAT. Anyways, I don't want to go to an Ivy League or anything like that, just a school with a solid premedicine program that isn't too expensive considering that money is pretty tight for my family. I really like University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and William & Mary. </p>
<p>I plan to try and explain my circumstances in my college essay or in the additional information section. Will schools like the ones I listed understand my circumstances and potentially let me in on a conditional acceptance or am I just hoping too big?</p>
<p>With those grades, scores and that top 10% ranking, you will get in some good schools. Just make sure that you apply to some realistic matches and a safety or two.</p>
<p>IF you are not MI or VA in-state, make sure you have FINANCIAL match and safety schools on your list also. Since you cannot know for sure what your GC will say in their letter then yes, I would definitely include your specific family illness situation in at least the “Additional Information” section of the application. Good luck!</p>
<p>I’m sorry about your dad, hhhhh. That’s very tough. Usually a guidance counselor will have you complete a questionnaire or something to be sure they are aware of your interests and circumstances so they can write a comprehensive recommendation for a student. I would be sure to let your counselor know of your concerns and situation and ask if he or she plans to cover it in the rec. That will help you know how specific to be in your own application. Your ACT, rank and grades look strong enough to get you into the kind of program you are interested in, so keep doing your best and don’t fret.</p>
<p>Don’t worry. I am an OOS applicant and my GPA is 3.6UW/4.2W, SAT is 2100, and rank is top 5%. I was admitted to UMich under EA this past December. I would say that you have a decent chance if you show an upward trend, take some rigorous courses next year, and remember to apply as early as possible.</p>
My sympathies for your dad’s illness. One suggestion, though. It often makes a more powerful impact if mention of illness or other challenging circumstances comes from your counselor. Since you’re in 11th grade now there is time to get to know your counselor if you don’t already and make sure they are aware of the situation. If there is an additional info section then you can also list it there, but I would tread carefully about making it the focus of an essay unless the essay specifically asks about something along the line of hurdles you’ve had to overcome.</p>