<p>My grades this fall have taken some hits due to the combination of my grandmothers death, the swine flu, and swim team (I made it to state this year, missing multiple days for competitions). I will be able to get them all up to A's by semester, except for my AP American gov grade which will be a B+ or A-, and a college 3 credit class which will be a 3.8 (still and A but far from perfect). I wouldn't worry too much except that I had pretty bad grades last year (3.86 year average) because I started doing community college instead of regular high school and hard personal times (my parents fighting, moving out, etc.)</p>
<p>Should I explain my grades in the addtional info? I don't like to make excuses, but I dont want them to think I'm just lazy either.</p>
<p>Your circumstances are certainly the sort that should be explained, because they undeniably will have taken a toll on your grades. I would put a brief note in the Additional Information, but do not frame it defensively - just say it as it is.
What you should also try to do is to get your teachers (who are writing recs) and counselor to explain these extenuating circumstances in their recs; it looks far less than an excuse if it’s done that way.</p>
<p>The admissions folks will see that you went to community college. Your guidance counselor could explain why you did that. Did you want more challenge? Or was high school not working out? If the guidance person can’t explain to your satisfaction, then you can write a short note yourself, and have guidance include it with the transcript they send. That way, it is still sort of an official communication, rather than a personal note from you.</p>
<p>I would urge you to also have the guidance counselor mention any other obstacles you have faced, such as family troubles, if you think it is appropriate. Then it is another important piece of information about you, accompanying your transcript, rather than a personal plea for sympathy.</p>