I had a low 79% as my GPA for Freshman year, thankfully I turned that around my Sophomore year to a 94%. I am taking 5 AP courses this year (Junior) and I have above 90% in both marking periods currently. How much does the Freshman year matter? To this day I regret not taking that year seriously and I hope colleges (especially top ones) can see that I had the ability to turn it around. What are my chances?
An upward trend is better than a downward one.
If your definition of a “top school” is T10 or T20, those freshman grades will hurt, unless you’re applying to a UC, have an outstanding EC or two, or made a 5-figure donation… AND are a match for the school.
If your definition is a little broader, then you’ll be okay, as long as you apply to a good mix of match, and likely schools, and only then take your chances at a couple of reaches.
Good job on the turnaround. Keep it up!
By top I mean Ivy leagues and such. Granted I know that even if I had good Freshman grades my chance would still not be 100%, but many of the senior in our school have been accepted into Ivy Leagues
There’s a lot more to choosing a school than U.S. News rankings. In fact, you’d be doing yourself a big disservice using that criteria. A college is nothing more than a tool to bridge the gap between a dream and reality. Any accredited bachelors granting institution can do that. Take some time to find out your goals and ambitions, then choose an affordable school that works best for you.