I officially graduated early this year, but my GPA turned out an absymmal 2.2. It wasn’t that I slacked off since I did the homework, turned in assignments, etc. Rather, my downfall was most likely because I didn’t take advantage of Office Hours as I should have when I was struggling to understand assigned readings (especially when they use complex academic jargon/opaque writing) and because I had an incredibly ineffective study habit, e.g. rereading the readings and my notes over and over again while hoping they stick in my mind long enough to pass exams. As a result of my bad study habits and not going to Office Hours when I was struggling, most of my grades end up being a mix of low Bs and Cs. I’d like to go to graduate school because I want to advance in my academic career (I majored in Japanese and want to do a MA Translation Studies program), but I’m not sure if I even have a chance anymore.
Why did you graduate early with this kind of grades?
You have to work in a town with a public university and take classes part time (since you graduated you’re no longer eligible for financial aid.)
Yes, you would want to try taking a few courses in your subject as a non-degree student and do very well before applying for admission to the program. Note that in graduate school, students typically must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 while in the program.
@MYOS1634: I didn’t graduate early, I already completed all 4 years of college. Plus by the time I was set to graduate I was told that my financial aid won’t cover past my final year and that if I want to continue I’d have to apply for loans (I went to UC Davis).
also at my school you can’t repeat courses that you have a C in, you can only repeat courses that you have a D or F in.
I think @MYOS1634 mentioned graduating early because you said you graduated early in your first post.
Also, I don’t believe @CheddarcheeseMN was suggesting that you repeat any course, but rather that you should take additional courses (that you haven’t taken before) in your field as a non-degree student and do extremely well in them. I would add that these should be upper level courses,or even graduate-level courses. If you can do well in these, it would be a sign that you might do well in graduate school.
You may need to take a break from school, and get a job. After a few years of working, your GPA becomes less of an issue. I agree with other posters that you should take additional courses to try to bring up your GPA. Many grad schools require a minimum of 3.0 unless you have some super duper special skills.