<p>So I'm currently enrolled in a community college, have nearly 60 units, lots of E.C.'s, and a solid GPA. But a few years ago I wasn't do so well. I attended a couple other community colleges years ago and did poorly in both of them. At the time, I was just not focused whatsoever. I wasn't doing drugs or anything like that, I guess it was just immaturity? I'm not entirely sure, but it embarrasses me now and I'm well past it and completely motivated and focused now. So this is where my question comes in.</p>
<p>From what I understand, when applying to a UC (or just about any real university) you have to list all prior community colleges or schools you attended. If so, how badly is this going to screw me over? Is there anything I could do to better my situation? Maybe talk about it in my personal essay a little? As I said, I have a ton of E.C.'s that range all over the place and were long-term stuff, some of which are still on-going. I'm just afraid as to how my past will affect my future.</p>
<p>CSUs are GPA driven, so your cumulative GPA from all colleges attended is all they really look at (they take local transfers first, then CA-transfers second).</p>
<p>UCs look a bit at grade trends and a bit at the essay, but in the end GPA is the big factor. How does your cumulative GPA stand up?</p>
<p>Private colleges often look more at essays, grade trends, recommendations than the publics. In some ways, you will fare best with the private college apps.</p>
<p>Can’t comment much more without more details, cumulative GPA, what the “bad semesters” really looked like, etc.</p>
<p>Ah, well off the top of my head I have no idea. It was a long time ago so I’d have to go back and get the transcripts. But I’m guessing by just simply not mentioning them, the UC’s or private Universities would find out one way or another?</p>
<p>If it was 5 plus years ago, you can apply for forgiveness, if approved they won’t count old grades.</p>
<p>Huh, interesting. How might I go about doing that? Through the old schools?</p>
<p>Talk to the admissions offices of the schools you’re interested in, they can guide the process.</p>