I’m applying to USC as a transfer student for this fall. I’m 21.
So I’ve had a few bumps in the road. One incomplete (counted as an F at USC), one F, two Cs, & Bs/As during my first three semesters. (2012-2013)
I have a strong reason why this was the case (diagnosed anxiety/depression) and discussed that in two of my application essays.
This was followed by four semesters of straight As, extracurriculars, school involvement, a full time job and an internship at a magazine. I attended Columbia University this past summer as a visiting student and received an A in the class I took.
How much will my past discrepancies influence my chances? Thanks.
A strong upward trend will definitely help you. If you give USC a reason for your initial failures, I’m sure that they will understand. I do not know how much it’ll affect your chances, but I’m certain that a few bad grades due to depression will not completely kill your chances.
I have a similar story. I graduated high school with a 3.0 weighted gpa and am currently holding a 3.64 in college. That was my first semester in college and am looking to have similar successes this semester. I have a lot of extracurricular activities and involvement in clubs on the community college campus. Also I am involved in the Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Class to become a Marine Officer. How much will this help me in admission?