OSU does not need letters of rec, So is my personal statement important?

[kmlsu]

<p>I am applying to Ohio State University in hopes to be there this spring. I have a weird story, but one I hope they consider. I graduated high school and entered a community college as a non-serious student. I did not do well my first semester and was put on academic probation. (I had a 1.9 GPA). A year as gone by and I have completely turned things around. I took four summer classes this summer also, and ended up doing well, 3 As and 1 B. Unfortunately, my GPA wasn't at my goal of a 3.0-3.2. It is a 2.86. Although this is an extreme improvement from only a year ago, I was hoping for some strong letters of recommendation to help me. I called Ohio State and they told me they aren't even considered for transfer students. Just college work is considered. I feel pretty hopeless, and was wondering if explaining my story in my personal statement would be worth it?? I hear colleges like success stories and do look for upward trends in grades, which would definitely help me out.. It's just OSU is so big, I am hoping they actually do take time to read all of the personal statements.</p>