I need some serious consultation, please.

Bearly
Thu, 09 Oct 2014 11:30:48 +0000

From what I know, you could always do both–that is, apply (to see if you can get anywhere with your current situation) and if not, then no biggie (as you do have plans to complete one more year if necessary). In fact, one of my friends is doing that. She tells me she’s most likely going to do another year at our CC, but she’s applying anyway this year with fee waiver (she doesn’t think she will get in because she has a lot of unfinished prereqs, but you never know).

I mean, that’s only if you’re willing to spend the time/money (or just time and get application fees waived). More than likely, like you said, you might have to end up doing the extra year, but would be hugely beneficial and increase your chances immensely for the next application season. But note, GPA + major prereqs trump ECs no matter what–focus on and prioritize those first should you stay another year, and thenn you can get into worrying about ECs.

In short, I’m leaning towards your completing another year, but if you have the time/effort, you can apply anyway (4 schools for free with fee waiver) to see where you stand. If by some chance you get into a school you’d be content with going to, then great! Nothing to lose, aside from spending time to write your PS and filling out the UC app. And note it’s not gonna be held against you whether you were rejected or not and apply again next year, they surely wouldn’t remember a student from the past amid the thousands of apps they have to sift through.

Good luck!