<p>I’m sure grades are looked at differently by different schools, depending on what the school is looking for. We had students with a perfect 4.0 including AP Coursework (our high school does not weight regardless of difficulty of coursework) who still did not get into the more prestigious schools they applied to. On the other hand, our son was accepted into a Service Academy with a 3.5 and lots of leadership both in school and in community activities (Sr. Class Pres., JROTC Cadet Commander, Band Section leader, church activities, Civil Air Patrol, etc.). SA’s are looking for well-rounded students with academic, athletic, and leadership balance. Civilian schools may or may not put emphasis on all three of these areas.</p>
<p>When we spoke with an area admissions rep about a year ago for West Point, we asked about the grades as our son had his share of C’s and we didn’t know how that would affect his selection. The rep told us 3 things that stuck out in my mind: 1) we will look to make sure there are no D’s and F’s which would signal some other issues, 2) we would prefer a lower grade in a more demanding course than a higher grade in an easier class as we know the student was willing to challenge him/herself academically, and 3) because schools vary so much nation-wide in their expectations and rigor, we look at ACT and SAT scores more closely than grades because they are consistent measuring tools for nationwide comparisons of students. </p>
<p>I can’t guarantee the schools you are looking at would share this philosophy, of course, but it does make sense. I have also noticed that the junior year of high school seems to be the most challenging for many students. If you are a typical high schooler, you are learning to balance rigorous academics with all kinds of other activities: sports, music, jobs, etc. etc. and you are probably more involved now than when you were a freshman. When you start your college application essays in the fall, you can express some of these thoughts and concerns to let the admissions people know you had a more challenging schedule than you had expected. Emphasize what you learned from the experience such as improved time management skills and better study skills. Then at least the admissions staff knows you are not apathetic about the lower grades. </p>
<p>Ironically, our son had a Pre-AP English teacher that he was getting C’s from his jr. year. His ACT English score at that same time was a 31/36, so grades do not always show the whole picture. Keep your chin up and try not to worry too much about the C.</p>
<p>Good Luck!</p>