QUESTION: I am a high school senior who is more lost than ever. I want to go to a UC school, but I have a 3.1 grade point average (GPA). I feel like I should give up. I know I have UC potential, but unfortunately it’s my GPA that the colleges really value. I have been president of my class for the past three years, and this year I am a senior class officer and a cheerleader. The problem is that I had a really hard time my junior year because of personal issues that caused my GPA to drop. Do I still have a chance? Do they still look at grades during the senior year? How can I let them see that I am not just a number? – More Than Grades
Dear More Than Grades:The University of California system like many other state systems places high importance on grades. This is partly because it allows for quick evaluation of tens of thousands of applicants, a realistic number for many UCs. In fact, UCLA just had one of its most competitive years, receiving over 37,000 applications for its entering class of just over 4,000 students. Schools also value grades as a gauge of how well you will do in college-level classes. A high GPA is less a sign of intelligence than effort. Students who attend class everyday, do their assignments on time, and put real effort into learning the material tend to get better grades. If you know that you are this kind of student (and you sound like one who is), then you need to figure out how to convince the admissions committee that despite your low GPA you are a hard worker who is willing to do whatever it takes to do well at their school. Here is the strategy:
1) Don't dwell on the past. You can't change it so let's not call any attention to it. If there was a major event in your junior year (i.e., a death in the family), mention it in your application. However, if your "personal issues" were not serious, then you can't really use them as an explanation.
2) Show the admissions committee that you are a bright, talented, and motivated student without using your grades. How? Do well on the SAT or ACT, your second chance. If you study beforehand, you will see dramatic improvements in your scores. Don't even take the test without studying for it. If you have the time and money, consider a preparation course. If anything it will force you to study!
3) Consider choosing an academic topic for your essay. Your extracurricular activities will speak for themselves and don’t need bolstering. Use the essay to demonstrate that you have strong analytical abilities and can write at a college level. Have your teachers serve as editors to make sure your essay conveys this message.
4) Do anything you can now to boost your academic profile. It goes without saying that you need to turn in a strong first semester. Colleges will look at your senior year grades. Also, do other things to win some academic recognition. Have an article or opinion piece published in the school or community paper. Get a poem published in the campus literary journal. Build your academic portfolio in the time that you have left.
Unquestionably, grades are important. But if you don't have them, then you need to figure out another way to show the admissions officers that you are capable of doing college level work and excelling in a rigorous academic environment. We think you can do it.
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