<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 20 years old & a high school graduate; class of 2009.
My overall GPA was a 3.2.
As a Freshman & Sophomore I fared poorly, earning roughly a 2.7 each year.
As a Junior & Senior I stepped it up significantly, earning roughly 3.7 each year.
I had decent SAT scores, with an overall of 1790. CR - 640. M - 560. W - 590.
Throughout high school I was involved in all the band programs available: wind ensemble (the top concert band), marching, & jazz. I was a section leader for 2 years in W.E. & marching, & section leader for 1 year in jazz.
Early in my junior year, I snagged a part-time job which I maintained until August of 2009 when I left for college... which is where things get a little sticky...</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>