<p>I have a 1.9 high school GPA and awful SAT scores. I applied test optional and wrote an 8,000 character essay about my extenuating circumstances. I grew up with an abusive alcoholic father and that has impacted my life tremendously. I was diagnosed with ADD summer going into my senior year (this year) and my grades show improvement. I applied undeclared liberal arts for Fall 2015. Do I have any shot at getting in? Are essays weighed heavily? </p>
<p>If your easy completely examples your lack of good grades then its possible but, not trying to be rude, you can’t only play the alcholic abusive father card. Lots of people have those in their deck but you have to show what’s unique about you </p>
<p>It’s a lot more than that, it’s what came of it. It resulted in a lot of moving, sudden poverty and flexibility on my behalf. My essay is about my life and how it has shaped me as an individual. </p>
<p>not sure with that gpa. if you don’t get in, start at a community college, do well(and it sounds like you have the drive to do well), and transfer in. Are you taking ADHD medications now? They can help a lot and would be crucial for you to take once you start college. They can also help you focus during your senior year. Wish you the best and my hat is off to you for working to overcome hard issues you have faced. </p>