<p>They say junior year is both the toughest and most important year; however, for me it has certainly been brutal. This has been extremely evident in my grades.</p>
<p>Prior to junior year, I had gotten straight A's in my eight classes, was top of the class, took the hardest courses, dedicated myself to several clubs, competed in a fair state and national competitions, and did sports year round. I had done a fair amount of public speaking, organizing events, (and though it little matters to colleges, another sport: competitive rock climbing).</p>
<p>Now, that that has changed due to myriad causes, I am lost as to what colleges I still can get into. First semester, I had received 2 B's, which wasn't terribly bad. However, this year, while I am still likely to pull 4 or 5 A's possibly more, I am also likely to receive one or two C's.</p>
<p>Perchance, do other people have similar experiences and would like to share how they had handled them? Or, possibly where I still fall on the college scale?</p>
<p>OH! And furthermore, due to my academic struggle, I have given up almost every extracurricular.</p>
<p>If recovery is feasible, you could resume your previous work ethic and request that your guidance counselor briefly explained the circumstances that lead to your academic decline. Life happens! Though I’m not past the admission process, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia in the midst of my most challenging course load, and it certainly proved difficult–both physically and mentally, resulting in more Bs than I’d like (3). I plan on asking my guidance counselor to explain my condition.</p>
<p>It’s vital, that if you do choose to elaborate on your problems, you do not come across as “whining”. Try to show that you’ve grown from these obstacles, making your adversity an asset. </p>
<p>Remember that there’s nothing wrong with a state school! Many argue that it’s best to save money when obtaining your undergraduate degree and to puruse college of a high caliber for graduate/medical/law school. </p>
<p>Most of all, take care of yourself, and I sincerely hope that things looks up for you! :)</p>
<p>First, your grades are not horrible. Second, junior year can be the toughest. Third, you can pull your grades up. Fourth, you can have extracurricular activities but just don’t spend that many hours on them. Fifth, you have all summer to prove yourself. Take challenging community college classes if they are available near you, take AP online courses from home, do something spectacular with your talents in the community service area, and study like crazy for your SAT II tests. </p>
<p>Will you get into Tier 1 schools? It’s not impossible with those grades if your scores are high, your summer use of time is excellent and your senior year returns to all A’s. Tier 2 schools are also an option, and you can get a great education at them. State universities are not going to reject you if you get going now and return to your best work. Be strategic and don’t overload yourself. You can do it. Don’t despair at all.</p>