Hi CCers,
I am currently a junior with four B’s and two A’s. I know that junior year should be the best year, and an upward trend in grades is important. I have received nearly all A’s in my sophomore and freshmen years (one B in each year).
Before I go into my question, I’d like to explain why my grades aren’t so hot. In the beginning of the year, I overwhelmed myself by taking many advanced classes: 4 core AP classes, and an honors class. In addition, my school is known for being very rigorous (top 10 public school in MA). Although I regret how rigorous I made my schedule, I’m glad that I’ve learned not to overwhelm myself again in the future.
However, there is another big factor that has impacted my grades - my parents’ business went bankrupt this year, and I had to help them with setting up a new one, especially because they are not fluent in English.
Although my junior year grades aren’t too hot, my overall GPA will likely be a 3.6ish. Extracurriculars-wise, I have three leadership positions, volunteer with my local mayor’s office, and have published in a scientific database (Sorry for the lack of more details, don’t feel comfortable yet with posting my stats).
Will my circumstances severely hurt my chances for admission to colleges? Will the admission officers understand the sudden downward spike in my junior year grades?
Thanks!
