<p>I don’t have time to read your essays (sorry) but I’ll just say that the GPA is not the be all and end all in admissions. It certainly is important, but certain deficiencies can be somewhat compensated for in other ways such as:</p>
<p>1) Good ECs (which it seems like you have)
2) Good recs from counselors and teachers who can address the issue of your GPA in their letters. You should ask them to specifically talk about your improvements in academics, strengths, and your potential and ability to handle college level work. A letter from your teacher or counselor that says “NerdyAsianKid has had a few bumps in the road in his courses but I am absolutely certain that he is prepared to excel in college and his recent work in AP classes back that up” will go a long way.
3) Standardized tests such as APs, SAT, and SATII can show that you can do well academically
4) Course rigor is also factored in when considering academic performance for obvious reasons. </p>
<p>So I’d say not all hope is lost</p>