<p>I think you more than have the “traditional non-traditional” story – What’s great about GS is that it doesn’t matter. There are plenty of people here straight out of high school (I’m looking at you, Sciences Po and JTS) who, more or less, have the “typical” Ivy League CC background. Likewise, there are 60+ y/o students who are grandparents, who are retired (I’m looking at you retired NYFD Chief), students who never had an opportunity to attend college for whatever reason, people who want to pursue a different career path (looking at you 60 y/o english professor completing requirements to apply to medical school (I’m not actually sure if they’re a GS student, though), or are here just because they can be. It doesn’t matter. We all live our lives in our own way. </p>
<p>What the admissions committee is interested in is what you’ve learned from your life experiences and how what you’ve learned make you a good fit for GS. How did you overcome your depression and what about overcoming that obstacle has made you a better person? What have you learned through your experiences that has allowed you go to from a <2.0 GPA to a 3.67 and continue that at GS?</p>
<p>When I was accepted, I hadn’t even completed my first quarter of community college. I had only taken a few courses throughout my time in the military with some good grades and some bad. I acknowledged those grades, along with my poor high school performance (at the time, 6 years prior), explained why they were what they were, and why they were a thing of the past. I recommend you explain your <2.0 and unless you have a C- or worse on your 3.67, I don’t think it needs explaining. </p>
<p>I think that showing growth and aptitude are the most important aspects of your application, although I have no insider information, so take that with a grain of salt. My SATs were old so I had to retake them – my new scores were significantly better. My LoR substantiated the growth I had experienced while outside of school and how I could apply those strengths in an Ivy League setting. Make sure your LoR reflect your strengths that will make you a fit for GS in a significant and sincere way.</p>
<p>I deferred admissions until my daughter was born and asked if I could continue at the community college until I was ready to move. They said yes and to maintain my grades. It wasn’t a warning but I imagine if you have a significant drop in GPA, it’d raise a few red flags.</p>
<p>I’m just completing my fourth semester at GS, so feel free to PM me if you have more questions. I have found that @campaigner and @hellojan, although I have no idea who they are, are very knowledgeable and helpful. I depended on their posts for solid, no bullshit information while I awaited my admissions decision.</p>
<p>TL;DR: Yes. Not much. I don’t think so. </p>