Hi guys I’m a senior who is applying to Princeton (top choice) among other selective schools. I couldn’t apply early due to circumstances, but I’m slightly concerned about by mid year report. My school grades on the quarter system, and first quarter I did fine in all my classes, except an 88 in English.
Second quarter I’ll get an A in English I think, but my AP Calc and Physics grades have done down. I think I’ll end up with both an 83 in the classes. I know Bs aren’t ideal, but my biggest concern is that first quarter I got a 94 and 91 respectively. So now this looks like a downward slide–and it is partially my fault since with scholarships and college apps I got stressed and didn’t really manage my school work the best.
I’m praying still, but does anybody have any insights on how Bs on a transcript for seniors look? I’ve had rigor throughout high school, but I have had a couple Bs before. I’ve self studied two APs, I am also taking AP bio, have taken physics B sophomore year already and did well. Thinking about it my semester average will be an 89 and 87ish respectively for each class (but my grades aren’t reported as a semester grade)
My ACT is a 35 and I’m a URM , and for good measure my essays were banging, and my recs were good
Oh I was also thinking if I did well on midterms which aren’t sent automatically, should I try to send them as a demonstration these grades don’t really represent my best
@skieurope I appreciate the response. But you were a little terse, so may I ask why? Would they be annoyed if I sent it/would they not even consider it?
Also would this be a reason, if I was borderline, for rejection. I’m trying to stay away from the whole “chancing” mindset, but I’m not sure what to do.
I’m guessing that the Bs won’t look too good and may negatively affect your chances. If you were my kid, I’d advise you to send in your first-quarter grades with a very short note explaining the decline and perhaps a sentence or two indicating steps you planned to take to improve those grades in the remaining grading periods. Good luck–don’t give up!
@Planner thanks :), my school has already sent in my first quarter grades along with my transcript. So if my schools reviewed my app today they would have my good first quarter grades. I’m thinking they’ll get these second quarter grades sometimes mid-February, along with a note if my GC thinks its fine. Thanks for the reassurances!
Depending on the number of previous B’s, it probably won’t affect you much if it looks like you’ll pull them up by years’ end. 35 and URM is good, depending on ECs and stuff, you have as good a chance as anyone. Obviously B’s aren’t ideal, but there isn’t a lot you can do now, I wouldn’t stress.
Don’t waste time worrying about things outside your control. If grades are already in, just move on and forget about it. Grades aren’t the only thing that they consider. Just don’t worry about it and enjoy the rest of your senior year!
Making excuses that you were stressed from filling out applications for colleges and scholarships is a bad idea, imo. This is not an unusual set of circumstances unique to you. Other top kids also have to deal with this and not let the ball drop. Why should AO’s give you a free pass just because you said you were sorry and promised not to do it again? It is what it is. Hopefully, your application is strong enough to withstand a small drop in quarterly grades. My guess is that It probably is. Best of luck!
