So I am interested in several top LAC’s including amherst and wesleyan.
However, I had a poor start to high school as my 9th and 10th grade GPA was a 3.6
Im currently a junior and if I manage to get a 3.8-4.0 gpa, would i still have a shot at these schools?
My EC’s are consistent and varied, and my SAT is around a 1430.
What attitude should i have for the next year or so, and for when im applying to colleges? Should i prepare myself for rejections, or should I stay hopeful?
Thanks!
No you shouldn’t, colleges like seeing an upward trend in grades. Sometimes they don’t even count your freshman year GPA. Granted that your GPA in junior year is high and you have good essays, you should have a chance at getting into one of those colleges.
As mentioned above, the upward trend works in your favor. I think you should work hard and go for it. College acceptances can be unpredictable, so don’t set your hopes on specific places.
@air2017 @greenteen17 thanks! However, do you guys think that I will still have a reasonable chance at schools like amherst and wesleyan? Or should I be lowering my expectations a little bit?
If I were you, I wouldn’t expect something specific. Definitely apply, because there is a chance of getting in. But make sure to apply to 2 or 3 safeties. I guess I think you should apply and not be set on having an attitude on whether you’ll get in. Good luck!
What do you consider a “reasonable” chance? Wes admits 22% of applicants, Amherst 14%. Those are some pretty meager odds. Go for your dream but have a good backup plan.
@greenteen17 thanks!
@alooknac I guess I’m asking if I’m not wasting my time applying to these schools. For example, there’s no point in me applying to MIT or Stanford. Would it be worthwhile writing their supplements and applying? Are my chances above or below their acceptance rates?