The EDUFAX Educational FAQ

Question #189:

I am entering junior year and my GPA=2.8. What are my chances of finishing junior year with a GPA of 3.7? I started high school really bad but am doing much better now. I want colleges to consider my change in direction, not my current GPA. Any advice? (courtesy James Martinez, Seattle, WA)

Answer #189:

Good news -- if you get 4.0 for junior year, your GPA in June will be 3.4. You will have worked like a mad dog, but it's worth it. Also, you should know that many colleges understand that some kids are slow starters. They look more carefully at the junior year than at rough beginnings. In fact, they appreciate the maturity it takes to change a lifestyle and an attitude. You will need to explain, in your essay or in a separate piece which accompanies your application, what factors caused the rough beginning and what, or who, helped you make the change. If your guidance counselor doesn't have time to treat individual cases, it might be a good idea to use the services of an educational consultant. Good Luck! EDUFAX provides services for the Collegebound High School Student.

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