USC is my dream school. My brother goes there currently, many of my close friends are happy there, and I know I am a bright student and I will fit in really well and take advantage of the opportunities available. But…my GPA is suffering. I go to a small private liberal arts school in Southern California and I am just doing “OK”…I got a 3.0 both semesters my freshman year (I’m a rising sophomore) and second semester I thought I would do better because I took 3 classes in my major instead of taking easier class and it turned out to be overkill for me. I am taking much easier classes this fall and I am determined to get a 4.0.
But even with a 4.0 GPA, I used a calculator online and I don’t think I can surpass a 3.5, maybe 3.6 average GPA by the end of my sophomore year. I take responsibility for my GPA of course, but the worst part is, I genuinely feel that I am a great candidate for USC.
I not only was an avid student council member and debater in high school (and college), but I also am working in a law firm as an intern right now for the summer. I am clearly a bright student. So I am really feeling discouraged right now because I am afraid that my GPA is going to haunt me AGAIN this fall/spring when I apply.
I already know I should have gotten better grades this past year, so I’d prefer to not be lectured about it–I am just wondering what I can do beyond getting a 4.0 this year both semesters to better my chances. I know they will probably ask for spring grades, which will help me more than hurt me I’m sure, and I know I can also appeal the decision (but I don’t know how effective it is). What should I do?? 