For the additional comments box in the academic history section for the UC app, is it worth explaining why my grades dropped?
I took all AP classes but ended up with 2 C+'s and 4 A’s second semester of last year (11th grade), whereas most of my grades have been A’s previously.
I’m thinking about leaving it blank because I honestly don’t believe that the people reviewing my essay will care about my excuse, but I asked other people and got mixed responses.
people most certainly review the essays. If you had an illness or a family situation that kept you from attending class, that may sway them to forgive a somewhat below average GPA. Even so, getting into a top UC with a GPA in the 3s is going to be an uphill climb. I don’t know your stats but, if you want to go to a UC, my advice to you is to spend some time on making those essays sing. Also, while you still have time, be sure to apply broadly, including a couple of CSUs.
Good luck