My grades from freshman and sophomore year were not that great, but I've improved a lot since then. Does anyone have any advice on how I can still have a shot at getting into Princeton, despite my past grades?
Hi there! It's not uncommon for students to not perform at their best during freshman and sophomore years. But the great news is that colleges value growth and improvement, which is something you've clearly demonstrated. To maximize your chances at getting into Princeton, here are some suggestions that could help you:
1. Focus on your junior and senior year grades and aim for a strong upward trend in your academics. Show them that you stepped up your game and are now excelling in your classes.
2. Write a compelling essay where you can touch upon your growth throughout high school and how it has shaped you into the person you are today. Demonstrating self-improvement and resilience can make a huge impact on how the admissions committee views your application.
3. Pursue extracurriculars that you are genuinely passionate about. Colleges, including Princeton, appreciate students who are committed and engaged in their interests outside of school. By showcasing this, you'll prove that you're not defined by your early high school grades.
Remember, no application is perfect, so focus on highlighting your strengths and showcasing your growth. Best of luck!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.