I attended college from 2008-2010 (5 semesters) and my transcript will clearly show that I wasn’t ready to do so. I only went to my music classes, which I did excel at. My GPA was no higher than a 2.5.
A year after dropping out, I joined the military as a musician. During my time in service, I have accomplished many things and experienced the very real transformation that the military is known for (leadership, responsibility, “life experience”, ect.).
My time is quickly arriving and I’m beginning the process of applying as a transfer student. Will my past academic failure weigh over my most recent success? I see that many schools have a minimum GPA required to transfer. Are there waivers? Is this where the essay will come into play? Is there anyone who’s been in a similar situation that can shed some light on your experience?
You joined the military as a musician? I didn’t even know that was possible.
Ok, you can totally reinvent yourself. Most universities love vets (the UCs do), for exactly the reasons you mentioned.
Any past courses that are Ds and Fs can be repeated, or you can try for academic renewal to expunge them. Check with your school regarding their academic renewal policy. You can also usually repeat C- grades.
Then you just move forward getting the rest of your courses completed. You are, unfortunately stuck with C grades as they cannot be repeated. However, between those grades and now, you were in the military, so most universities will look more closely at the GPA after the military (in other words, showing an upward trend).
It certainly is. It was a great way to see the world, and live the dream of being a professional performer. If I understand you correctly, there is a way to have my poor grades expunged? That would be ideal, so I’ll definitely look into that. Thanks.
You can contact your original college or university, and find out what their policy is about re-taking classes.
If you aren’t interested in returning there, then don’t let your old grades worry you too much. Many colleges and universities are perfectly happy to admit veterans with your kind of academic history because they know you are older, wiser, and ready to commit to completing your degrees. Just make a point of communicating with the admissions officer responsible for veterans. That person will be the one best able to help you come up with a workable plan.