Does my freshman GPA ruin my chances for college?

<p>I am not sure if I posted this in the right section, I'm sorry. Anyway, I just received my report card today and I've found out that currently my GPA is a 3.82 unweighted and about a 3.96 weighted. (I only took 2 honors courses) I know I can do much better, and I'll be taking 4 honors classes so I'm going to attempt to do better. In my junior year I'm planning on taking all honors and 3 AP courses. I'm aware that colleges don't solely look upon GPA, I'm involved in many outside activities such as kickline, french club, dance classes, future teachers, as well as participated in the winter drama production and on saturdays I take non-credit courses at local colleges. Will my GPA from this year ruin my chances of getting into my dream schools like Georgetown, Duke, George Washington, Penn State, and American University?</p>

<p>3.82 is already in the target range for the schools you list.</p>

<p>Not at all. Colleges know that Freshman year is a big adjustment and just like to see progress from Freshman year on. So starting low and ending high is actually good. Also, some high schools will allow you to put more weight on the second and third years, re GPA. Check with your school.</p>