<p>Hey guys, I've been up all night thinking about my situation. I'm a high school graduate of 2007. After high school I went to a community college in my area, after a full year of college I still just "didn't get it." I screwed up bad and was put on academic restriction, only letting me take two classes per semester till my gpa improved. Today in 2010, I've taken a full year off to take a break, and try to reset myself. To this day my GPA is 0.65. I know, it's bad... but in the year I took off, I've gotten my head straight, I'm now an EMT with a fire department and loving it. I'm majoring in Nursing. </p>
<p>So after three years of screwing up I'm transferring to a different community college to "start over" as a freshman. I really I wish I didn't have to send over my transcripts, but I know lawfully I have to. At this point I just need advice, I'm just nervous of what the advisors will say at my new college about my transcript, it's a big train wreck. I don't know what to do, I'm more motivated than ever to get through college and eventually be a nurse. I'm just scared that these grades will hurt my chances terribly. ANY advice from anyone will be much appreciated. I just need help...</p>
<p>A 0.65 GPA indicates to any sane person that you were working through serious issues in your life. You took a break for a year, and unlike what many people would do you’re starting over and trying again. That speaks very highly of you; do well in your current classes, and I see no reason for you to be so worried.</p>
<p>Why not go speak to the people in the guidance office if you are concerned? Or to your advisor, if you have one. This is a chance to show people how you’ve turned yourself around and the better they know you, the more likely they are to want to help you reach your goals. Every school has resources (a writing center, tutoring, etc…) that can help you if you know about them. And everyone, especially educators, likes to be part of a success story. The story of a .65 who turns into a great student is pretty compelling.</p>
<p>I agree with the other posters. Figure out what was missing the first time - were you immature, lacking in self discipline, lacking in confidence, unable to picture the goal you were working toward - what? Write a letter or speak to them in person and demonstrate your new found self awareness and what you’ve already accomplished since you’ve become more mature and disciplined. Getting your EMT certification and working in that field, within the highly structured fire department, show discipline and perseverance. You should be able to walk with your head held high! You were young, you messed up what was handed to you, and now you’re succeeding in a path you’ve carved out for yourself. I think you’re in better shape than you think!</p>
<p>Thanks everyone, I guess it’s just nervousness, feeling like I won’t get anywhere. I’m really ready to just get things done the right way. With a 0.65 you’d think I’m an idiot or something, I’m not; I guess it’s just a lack of discipline & self control to get things done in school.</p>
<p>The best part of this is that you now have your head on straight. Good luck in your future endeavors, and hey, think of it this way: this would make one heck of an amazing admissions essay! :)</p>
<p>Some community colleges have academic renewal programs where they will discount older, awful grades from your transcript if there is a compelling change in your future studies. Might be worth looking into, to keep the weight of the prior gpa from dragging down your future gpa. I would bet that most kids with d’s and f’s on their transcript just quit going to class and didn’t properly withdraw, so stupid doesn’t play into it. Just make sure to go to classes you sign up for, withdraw by the deadlines if something in your life prevents you from giving your best effort to the classes you’re taking, and enjoy the fresh start!</p>