Extenuating circumstances...

<p>I've been curious to ask this and i've been too scared to ask my guidance counselor..this gets a little personal and if this is in the wrong spot go ahead and tell me please.</p>

<p>My family and I have had a tough time in the last two years. Right now i'm a sophmore and it started when I was in 8th grade. My dead developed a disease that led to him losing his job. My mom's been having a heck of a time trying to find a job. We've moved 9 times in the last 2 years because of finances. My dad is now a disabled veteran. I've been in a group home because of some thing for a few days. I have to work 35 hour weeks plus another 35 hours at school. I've gone to three different high schools. And my parents are making about $200 dollars a month plus my $800. I'm 16 and going to become a junior next year. I got a 3.4 gpa and i've taken every hard class that i could.</p>

<p>Because of work I don't have any time for volunteering or many extra cur.</p>

<p>If i wrote a letter, would that help at all? THanks</p>

<p>I think most colleges are sympathetic to situations like these...you can talk about them in your essay. I don't know about writing a letter, but I guess it couldn't hurt? Somebody more involved in admissions would know how things like this work.</p>

<p>That said, having a 3.4 GPA is not considered great, but it isn't all that bad either. You can still get into pretty good schools with it; probably your situation will make some colleges more sympathetic, so you'll definitely be able to go somewhere. You should be able to get into some good schools with it, even if they are not Ivy League. I would suggest taking a look at what public schools are in your state, and going for that.</p>

<p>Many colleges consider jobs an extra curricular activity, so working 35 hours a week will DEFINITELY be considered an EC. See if your school offers any extra curriculars you can get involved on campus though, just during lunchtime or whenever. Something like Math or Spanish Club? (not sure what your interests are...but they're an option). It really couldn't hurt, as for many colleges they want you to be passionate about something you're interested in, and doing activities to back that up can only help.</p>

<p>You have 2 years left in high school, so that's something you can take advantage of. Keep working hard and try to get your grades up next year, and do NOT be afraid to talk to your guidance counselor! They generally can help you a lot, with any sort of problem.</p>

<p>thanks alot for the reply</p>

<p>Hang in there! It'll get better!</p>

<p>I hope your dad is feeling better.</p>

<p>Ask your guidance counsoler to write a letter. Youmiught not get into Harvard but a 3.4 will still get you into some vey good schools.</p>

<p>thanks guys</p>