I’m currently a freshman at a STEM based school running an IB program. The year is almost over, and I have finished with 2 b’s. I was definitely slacking and could’ve worked harder but theres nothing I can do now but improve in the coming years. I have a 4.15W gpa, assuming I maintain if not improve that GPA, do I still have chances the schools I want to go to (Johns Hopkins, UCLA, UC Berkeley)? I know SAT, EC’s play a big role too. I have strong EC’s, I play a varsity sport and have won national competitions for VEX robotics. Also, refurbishing computers to give them to the people who need it and helping kids with disabilities play soccer every week week for 4-5 hours a week.
Obviously I should aim for the highest score possible on the SAT, but with the gpa I have what can I afford to get?
UCB/UCLA do no use Freshman grades in their GPA calculation (only 10-11th grades) so do not worry. Just step up your game for the next 2 years. Take challenging courses, do EC’s that you enjoy and prep for the SAT/ACT.
Oh I didn’t know that about freshman grades. I am out of state, but I’m blessed with parents that can pay the fees. You’re right, there is no guarantee I’m not going to slack off, but I’ll make the best effort I can.