Trying to Start Over

Applying to College
1

Immediately after high school I enrolled in school and took about 5 classes over the course of three semesters before dropping out. Now at age 23 I want to go back and make a serious effort at getting a degree. However the majority of the grades I recieved in those classes wouldnt reflect positively on me as a transfer student if I apply to a college now. Is it possible (or preferable) to just apply as a brand new incoming freshman at my school(s) of choice? I would lose the credits I already have but its only a few and sacrifice im willing to make.

One concern that I do have is that several of the schools I am considering require documents such as teacher and counselor recomendations. Im not sure that any of the teachers or counselors I had when in high school are still there or if they would remember me even if they are. What can I do about this?

Let me add that in High School I maintained around a 3.2 GPA all four years and had numerous AP courses. My high school transcript would look much better on paper than any college transcript I can produce.

2

All your transcripts are part of your permanent academic record and you are required to provide them when you apply anywhere. Can you make an appointment at the college you plan to attend to discuss your record and the issue of recommendations?

3

Kudos for taking the steps to continue your education. More power to you.

As BrownParent states, your prior history is part of your record, and it is what it is. Much better to address it honestly than to try hide it. Hiding it might result in being expelled from a school that initially accepts you. I’d suggest it speaks well enough that you’re now taking the initiative to go back to school.