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Duke University
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Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
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Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Can I still get into a good college if I had a bad freshman year in high school?

Hello everyone, I am currently a junior in high school and have started to think about my college applications. I must admit that my freshman year was not my strongest academically, and I am concerned about how this will impact my chances of getting into a good college. Since then, I have worked hard to improve my grades and have become more involved in extracurricular activities. I am wondering if colleges will take my upward trend into consideration or if my freshman year performance will significantly hinder my chances.

If anyone has any advice or personal experiences regarding this situation, I would greatly appreciate your input. I am particularly interested in learning about how colleges evaluate academic progress over time and if there are any steps I can take to mitigate the impact of my freshman year performance on my applications. Thank you in advance for your help and guidance!

a year ago

Hello! I understand your concerns about how your freshman year performance might impact your college applications. It's important to know that many colleges do take into consideration an upward trend in grades and increased involvement in extracurricular activities.

Showing an improvement in your academic performance and engagement in activities outside the classroom demonstrates to colleges that you have the ability to learn from your experiences and grow as a student. This can be a positive aspect of your application, as it highlights your dedication to your education and your resilience in overcoming challenges.

If you feel the need to address your freshman year performance, consider discussing it in your application essays or through additional materials that provide context for your academic journey. Emphasize your growth, the lessons you've learned, and your commitment to improvement.

In short, while your freshman year performance is a part of your application, it doesn't necessarily determine your chances of getting into a good college. Continue focusing on maintaining and improving your grades and engaging in meaningful extracurricular activities. This will demonstrate to college admissions officers your commitment to your education and personal growth. Wishing you the best of luck in your college application process!

a year ago

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