How does one deal with the regrets of high school?
First off, I went to a very small school. A few AP classes (mostly science) are offered but you need a 95 or above in the preceding class to get them. So far, I am taking none of them. It’s a little difficult to make friends. Most of my friends are very busy and I can’t really hang out with them.
Secondly, I have a 3.6 GPA, which is so-so, but I worked my tail off for it. I also have one glaring C in Honors Chemistry. I spent hours each night on that class, and cried about it at least three times a week for the better part of my sophomore year. I cannot even go to community college to become a nurse (without taking remedial classes) because of this C. I am only in 2 honors classes this year, History and English. (Although I could get into AP English next year)
Thirdly, I am in a few extracurricular activities, but I am a “dabbler” and not someone with a clear passion. I feel that this will greatly hold me back.
Overall, I just wish my high school experience could have been something more than it was.
All I would like is to get into my state’s flagship (Rutgers), hopefully into the business school but otherwise maybe I could transfer? However I know many many students apply there and I probably won’t get in.
Anybody have advice on how to deal with these regrets?
I think you’d certainly have a good shot at Rutgers with a 3.6/4.0. I don’t think having all AP classes at large schools is as important as most kids think. Admissions people know that at some high schools it’s extremely difficult to be recommended for Honors/AP and in other high schools just about every class is called Honors or AP and given to anyone who desires to take it. The C in HChem shouldn’t hurt too much if you’re not going into the sciences.
Most kids don’t have a passion or calling at your age. It just seems that everyone does because those are the kids who you hear about most and are often also great at promoting themselves (as well as their parents!). If you are interested in business join a club that is business oriented, maybe become treasurer or start your own small business (gardening, computer repair, tutoring) to show some interest in business.
You could also look toward some of the other smaller NJ state schools as back up and then transfer after a year to Rutgers if you might not get in. Rutgers would be a school where there are probably many open transfer seats every year. Show interest in Rutgers now. Try to have a rapport (even if it’s just by email) with someone in admission’s. Make sure you go to their open houses, attend their info session and research some of the programs in depth online. If they are coming to your school or a college fair in the area attend, ask good questions get someone in admissions email address. There is a fine line between showing interest and being a pest. But they do appreciate you are taking the time also.
It’s a daunting process for everyone. Even the Mr. and Ms. Perfect’s sweat out their top choices too! Good luck and just do the best that you can and don’t get too hyped out about it. There’s a school out there for everyone.