<p>Sorry this is so long..."</p>
<p>My top choice for college is UMass-Amherst, although I question whether or not I'm qualified & here is why...</p>
<p>I'm now 20 years old. Class of 2009.
3.2 / 4 overall GPA.
Freshman/Sophomore year 2.7 GPA each.
Junior/Senior year 3.7 GPA each.
1790 SAT. 640 - CR. 560 - M. 590 - R.
4 years band. (2 years in wind ensemble, top band)
3 years marching band.
2 years jazz band.
2 years section leader in marching/wind ensemble
employed junior/senior year...</p>
<p>This is where it gets sticky, however....</p>
<p>I attended Washington State University. The first semester I did horribly! At just over a 2.6 GPA, I wasn't feeling too happy about myself. Second semester rolled around & I was beginning to do REALLY well... until something came up in my personal life. Without getting into it, I had a procedure which kept me out of class for a few days. After trying to return from a week away from classes, I altogether stopped going & essentially dropped out. </p>
<p>After that time, I have obtained a steady job which I've had for just over a year now. I feel great about myself & I'm more ready than I've ever been to further the education that I'd set out for to begin with.</p>
<p>I do not know what this school looks at during the screening process, but I'd love to get to know.
Also I wonder whether it would be best to just attend a community college for two years, prove my dedication, & then apply? Or if I should just shoot for the moon & hope for the best now? </p>
<p>I would like to begin in Spring (preferable) or Fall of 2012.</p>
<p>Any & ALL insight/advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks infinitely in advance. I've already accepted the harsh reality that my chances are likely to be slim, but hearing other people's opinions is always nice.</p>
<p>OH. & I would be an out of state student.</p>