Downward Trend vs. Upward Rigor?

Applying to College
1

I feel like I’ve been posting a lot, but I hope this will be my last thread in a while.

Up until now (I’m a rising junior), I’ve had straight A’s in my school’s most rigorous courses. But other than fulfilling PE and Arts requirements, I haven’t taken many courses outside of the cour (English, math, science, etc.). This is my mistake for not taking better advantage of my school’s electives, but I think that’s in part why I’m doing so well. Next year I’ll be taking a lot more classes at a much higher rigor than before, which makes me believe I probably won’t do as well. The classes I’ll be taking will be both more rigorous and also more expressive of my interest, however. But I may not do as well.

My question is, will getting my first A- or even B in a core class be interpreted as a downward trend in grades, even though the rigor has increased a low? To clarify, I won’t be changing my schedule based on the responses. I’m really excited about my courseload next year and I’m going to work my hardest regardless. But I’d like to know how an admissions officer will see this (barely) downward trend in grades.

2

An A- is not a downward trend. Nor is a B

3

What courses are you taking? Yes, if your gpa food, it’s not going to be as good as those who do it. But a single A or B is not a trend.

4

Oh, ok. In that case, I think I’m ok. I don’t necessarily think that my grades will change dramatically next year (the goal is that they don’t). I was just worried that any change in my grades would be interpreted as a trend since I’ve been really consistent. Thank you for clarifying!!

5

Why not prepare to do well in all these classes?

Be sure you know about and use the most effective learning techniques. If you things like review the book and your notes before a test or do the homework in one or two sittings then you are not using the best practices. Best practices include self-testing instead of reviewing, and almost-daily answering of questions (distributed practice) instead of massing it into one or two sessions. This summer I suggest you read the book “Make it Stick” about learning; it has lots of tips for HS and college students.