Question to Geology Masters Program students

Hi, I am currently going to UW Madison and just finish my first semester of junior year.
I am planning to do Paleontology Graduate Program at Grad school and I am very worried about it.

It’s because my GPA is too low. My final grades didn’t pop out yet but I expect between 2.7(2.79) - 2.8
And I know it is very low GPA to get into Grad school programs. But I really want to get in!

I am currently doing a research project and working for prep lab right now.
I might be able to do one more research if time is available and I am being diligent.
I might take GRE during my senior year or after graduation (not going to grad school directly)

What were your GPA and activities (include GRE) when you got into the program?
Will I be able to get into Graduate Program?

I am not looking for top-tier university
My dream school is University of Michigan - Ann Arbor (I know it’s impossible…)

I am considering…
University of Colorado
University of Wyoming
Brigham Young University
University of Maryland - College Park
Virginia Tech
University of Montana
Stony Brook University
Bristol University
University of Alberta

I get good grades for my geoscience classes (most of them are As’ but I have one AB) but my core classes (chem, math, physics) are awful…
I am more worried because I am an international student and it seems like international students have a higher standard of admission.

What you guys are thinking? What can I do more from next semester to increase my chance to get into grad school?
May I also know experiences from you guys getting into grad school?

I Would appreciate anyone’s stories or experiences!