Hi all,
I’m taking all AP and honors classes, junior year. I got a B- in math this year for anxiety reasons - it’s my first B-. Usually, I have strong As in the humanities and Bs to A-s in STEM classes. The B- was in AP Calc AB, and I’m pretty sure I also got like a 2 on the AP (score cancelling numbers, whatever it comes out to). Is that a deal breaker for the competitive schools I’m looking at (Brown, Swarthmore, Vanderbilt)? Is there anything I can do to mitigate the damage? (I go to a private school by the way, which gives some advantage whether people like to admit it or not).
Thanks!
It should be okay. If you feel comfortable, try telling the teacher that you felt the B- was not an accurate reflection of your performance and ask if you can do any additional work to show them that you understand the subject and (possibly) boost your grade.
If you’re worried, try taking the math SAT II to show that you know your stuff (but only if you’re certain you’ll get a great score).
BTW you must be my long-lost twin. Same english and math grade pattern, same private school gainz, same schools that I’m interested in :)) :)) :)) :))
For a most selective college, a B- in AP calc can place you in a less competitive position, especially if you want to study STEM. Sorry.
At a “private school,” any admissions “advantage,” is the counseling. So, go talk to your GC. Maybe you retake this course via DE and get an A.
No, it won’t help to “tell” the teacher the grade is wrong.
Come up with a list that has solid match schools. The B- isn’t the end of the world, but you need realistic options. You know the schools you listed are very high reaches anyway. I think Swarthmore is out for you, but a lot depends on the whole package.
As far as the anxiety, many people are anxious. Get counseling during the summer, and get that under control. College is a big transition and a lot of work, and being anxious isn’t going to help you.
I agree that a B- is not the end of the world, but combined with a bunch of B’s , it does make you less competitive for top schools (unless you have a hook) who will have scores of applicants with straight A’s.
Was at an info session recently at a very competitive school and the admissions counselor was asked what was better, a B in an AP class, or an A in a regular class. Her response, an A in an AP.
Agree with the above - one B- isn’t the end of the world, but if you have a stream of B’s - A minuses in STEM classes that will hurt you for the schools on your list. Those very top colleges you listed look for students who can excel in a wide range of classes.
Since you are in a private high school I’d imagine your guidance counselor would be the most helpful person to discuss what type of schools you should be applying to with your academic record from your HS.
Math can be hard. A lot of people don’t take calculus at all. You obviously aren’t applying to engineering schools, and probably aren’t going to major in a STEM subject.
You mention it is an advantage going to a private school, so I assume it is a fairly good one. Therefore, it is impossible to evaluate what the grades from that school mean without knowing the school. As mentioned, the guidance department should know.
It depends on standardized test scores and ECs on so on also, so I can’t evaluate what level of school you are qualified for based on this information.