Upward trend?

I’m apply to schools like Vassar, Bryn Mawr, Smith, Wellesly, etc. My question is, with selective schools like these, how important is an upward grade trend? For example, I usually only manage to get a C in IB Chem. But this first quarter I got an A (I have no clue how). Will they see the discrepancy as alarming, or will it be good to have such a drastic increase?

<p>An upward trend is good, its the downward slide that would alarm admissions.</p>

<p>I'm curious why you would take IB chem and struggle, rather than honors chem. It suggests you push yourself to try with most demanding courses.</p>

<p>Well, since I'm an IB Diploma Candidate, I have to take six IB courses, including a science.</p>