What is considered an extenuating circumstance that could allow a slightly lower gpa (3.7 uw, 4.3 w) to be overlooked? Would my father being diagnosed with liver cancer when i was 7, and the fact that although my parents aren’t divorced, my dad lives several states away from me be considered “extenuating”? Or does "extenuating mean i have to be a homeless kid who’s missing an arm and simultaneously holds 3 jobs?
well, I think both are extenuating, but what colleges are looking for is how your circumstance and changed you.
If this is a topic for you essay, my teacher said that the 1/3 rule is good
1/3 about circumstance, 1/3 how you dealt with it, 1/3 the new and improved you
OP, you are fishing for excuses. Colleges won’t buy it.
well I think it’s important to note it in the essay if it was actually something that affected you.
I don’t think your circumstances are particularly “extenuating”. It is fine to try for a reach school or two but focus in on schools that match your academic stats – you should have many fine options.
Did those things honestly effect your hs gpa or are you just looking for an excuse?