My Recent Grades....Affect Admissions Greatly?

Applying to College
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I recently transferred to one of my city’s top college preparatory high schools, and my first semester grades were not too good. I received As and Bs in my AP classes, but failed (yes, FAILED) Honors Trig. I moved down a level in Trig (to regulars) and continued doing well in subjects that I plan to focus on in college (English, humanities). I haven’t taken the ACTs or SATs, but my PSAT and PLAN scores were respectable and garnered letters from colleges noting these scores.

I want to plea the “had trouble adjusting” case in my application essays. It certainly was the case, so should I? I would certainly hate if schools hold one semester against me. At my old school (even though the quality wasn’t amazing) I exhausted all opportunities and was at the top of my class, hence my getting bored and transferring. I’ve also taken college courses at the University of Chicago over the summer…and my ECs are nice. I’m not trying to sound pretentious, I just want to give you all a better picture of my situation/abilities.

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<p>I'm not going to lie...an F is pretty bad...a lot of kids transfer schools without any problems or failed classes...HOWEVER, if there is a more substantial reason than transfering schools (not to sound harsh, but you didnt even move...you stayed in the same house, I presume?) than the F can be EXPLAINED...Just keep doing well (especially in Math!) to show them that you arent slacking...</p>

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<p>Well, emotional issues and being diagnosed with bipolar disorder. But I really wouldn't want to put my business out there like that. </p>

<p>What do you think?</p>

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<p>Also, do you know anyone who has gotten in a respectable school with one F on their transcript?</p>

<p>oh gosh. I sound like one of those kids that complain over 1590 SATs. </p>

<p>But I'm just really worried because now I'm serious about Kenyon, Oberlin, and Northwestern...for journalism and English.</p>