<p>Hi,I have a pretty vital question.
I generally have high grades ( high 90's ). This year, my senior year, a lot of tragic events happened in my family. My average for senior year is down to 70.
I'm applying to pretty competitive schools. Should I contact each school and let them know why the drop occurred? Who do I contact? Will this help me or only draw more attention to my drop? Will I still hold a chance at Ivies?
Thank YOU SO MUCH !</p>
<p>Have your guidance counselor contact the admissions depts at the schools.</p>
<p>Yeah thats not good at all. Just send them in and if its a rejection letter than what many would say " it wasn’t meant to be." That’s probably the easiest way to look at it.</p>
<p>My guidance councilor does not like to write letters…would it be acceptable if I send one from my self?thanks</p>
<p>Yes, absolutely. You must address this, and that could really work for you (as in, the maturity in facing this situation, “owning” it, and explaining exactly what has happened and how you are overcoming this situation). I totally understand wanting to ignore it/not draw attention to it, but quite honestly, you know that it is inevitable that this grade drop will be seen and will affect your application. Write your letters as soon as you can - this really could all work out - and GOOD LUCK!!</p>
<p>Contacting the schools admissions officer is WAY better than silence from you. There’s no way that they know that you’ve been dealing with a) tragedy or b) a semester long party unless you contact them and TELL THEM.
Let them know that it is a). Don’t be whiney or overly dramatic. Be factual. Offer to provide any supporting material they wish to have (death certificates, police reports, whatever). Good luck.</p>
<p>I would discuss with your counselor or some very knowledgeable about college admissions what you are planning to say in the letter. Yes, letters can backfire. But I do agree if you have something that may make sense to explain, it’s better than doing nothing.</p>
<p>Thank you all so much! I will send a letter out this week. Would an e-mail, call or a letter to undergraduate office be preferred?</p>
<p>You could make an anonymous call to the admissions office and ask them what they would recommend you do.</p>