<p>My current situation is that I was struggling with family, health and other such things that factored into about a 3.2 GPA my freshman and sophomore year.
Currently, as of Junior year, I am a Full IB diploma candidate, involved commitedly with volunteering, choir and taking everything much more seriously, now that I have everything in order.
The question is: If I wanted to apply to an elite school, or even just a very presigious four year university, will my past performance way me down? Is my situation unique or can it be redeemed? Does it show perserverance or laziness? Overall, will it affect my chances when the college apps come pouring in? I am inteeligent and motivated now, but I have not always been on top of things. There has not been a clear cut answer through searching (via google), and I would like some insight.</p>
<p>there is no clear cut answer. The truth is that you may or may not get into an elite/ivey college even if you had not “messed up” your first two years. The truth is that many students with perfect scores do not get into those schools. </p>
<p>But a few things to consider: </p>
<ol>
<li>It is possible that even without perfect grades you could get into an elite school. Getting into those schools are slim for all students that apply. </li>
<li>You can be very successful and happy at a school that provides a good education, but may not be considered “elite”.</li>
</ol>
<p>What everyone at Collegeconfidential doesn’t realize and ****es me off, grades/wealth do not equate to happiness.</p>
<p>Honestly, do what you want in your life without worrying about other people’s expectations, and you will be a success. Success is measured by you, not anyone else. If you are happy, you will have redeemed yourself. Material things only take you so far.</p>
<p>Elite schools are not an assurance of material success! I know plenty of Harvard grads who struggle financially. I think people chose elite schools for all kinds of reasons.</p>
<p>If you want to shoot for a more selective school than a mid-level state university, you can go to community college for two years and shoot for transfer as a junior to the state flagship. That is a common path to redemption for someone who did not do so well in high school, or could not afford to go to a four year school for all four years.</p>
<p>I have considered being a transfer student! It seems logical, saves a load of money and can equate the same.</p>
<p>Oh and other people who are saying that I need this for happiness, you got it all wrong. Its more than just going for material things. Its more of a statement. I come from a fairly poor family, and nobody in my family has gone to college. The statement is this: anyone can do what they set their minds too. Pretty cliche I know, but its needed for my family as much as myself I guess. Plus, that’s a pretty cool thing for myself personally.</p>
<p>I really like your attitude, Gabegrdiner. If you are the first one in your family to go to college, that is actually a hook and some of your early high school performance may not matter as much, although sophomore to first semester senior year really matters. I wouldn’t focus so much on an elite university, but on a university where you can thrive, and where you and your family can afford. If you need significant financial aid, you also have to look for schools really want you, and that can meet your financial need with a combination of financial aid and scholarships. Transferring can make sense, but you should also explore the financial aid path with the transfer scenario, as it might change.</p>