How bad will the C in AP Calculus junior year hurt my application?

Applying to College
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<p>I got a 4 on the AP exam. However, 1st semester of junior year, I got a C- in Calculus. I don't know whether to explain it because I had an extremely weak immune system and missed 2 school days a week, but it doesn't have a specific name or cause. I'm afraid to come off as whiny or trying to make up excuses. 2nd semester, I got a A-. I also retook Calculus (not AP though) during the summer at a community college and got an A, to get a better understanding of the course, since it's important for computer science. How bad will this C in Calc hurt my application?</p>

<p>My GPA is a 3.75/4 unweighted, and I generally get A's.<br>
ACT score 34.
Is the poor grade worth explaining? I'm extremely concerned because I wanted to go in to business and comp sci.</p>

<p>I am an asian female.
I plan on applying to schools like Lehigh, Bucknell, Wake Forest, etc. Do you think I should aim lower?</p>

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<p>It’s good you did well 2nd semester, on the exam, and was wise to retake- this shows you had the motivation and understood that the basic skills matter. I actually think, for these schools, you may be fine. Of course, there can be a high level of competition; Bucknell can be unpredictable. </p>

<p>Your GC is usually the best way to cover any illness. They know how to state enough and not too much- and can then rave about how you overcame, plus your other strong qualities, etc. Talk with him or her. </p>

<p>And, as ever, make sure you have safeties youu love. Good Luck.</p>

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<p>Thanks for the input!</p>