<p>Hello College Confidential! This is my first post in the community, but I feel that we will have the opportunity to get to know one another. I won’t bore you with the details but my life took a dramatic turn about two months ago that reestablished my hope of a successful future.</p>
<p>Stats:
2.1 Cumulative GPA (Up to this point)
4.4 GPA (So far this semester, second of junior year)
33 Composite ACT Score (First attempt with ZERO prior preparation)
2300 Pre-SAT Score (Again ZERO prior preparation)
No Varsity Sports
No after school clubs/activities
2 Years of Martial Arts Instruction Experience
Intern Experience at Google
Intern Experience at the Local Democratic Headquarters</p>
<p>As you can tell my GPA is not stellar. This would be perfectly acceptable if I were seeking education at the local community college, I however wish to attend a slightly more prestigious establishment. As of this moment I expect to major in political science and continue on to law. I would like your opinions on, well, anything; Advice, possible colleges, whatever you feel might be constructive feedback.</p>
<p>May I ask what brought about the dramatic turnaround? It may help you with admissions if you have an explanation other than I was unmotivated, lazy, didn’t care, etc, but now I see the light…</p>
<p>I like your internships and your martial arts instruction - these seem like somewhat substantial ECs, depending on how much time you’ve devoted to them. My understanding is that there are a number of schools that care as much or even more about standardized test scores than GPA, or use a formula based on the numbers, in which case your high scores will help. Don’t know which ones, though. </p>
<p>There are a number of threads addressing the case of low GPA/high SATs. Do a search and you’ll find them.</p>
<p>OK, that’s a reasonable explanation, especially if you maintain the high GPA through 1st semester senior year. I’m not sure whether you or your college counselor should mention the ADD in your applications. Do a search on these forums for ADHD admissions advice.</p>
<p>Try to get a high score on your actual SAT – if you’re not satisfied the first time, practice taking some of those College Board exams published in their book, making sure you go over any question you got wrong.</p>
<p>What size and type of schools do you think you’re interested in attending?</p>
<p>Before venturing off to Law school, you should become aware of the awful job mkt for this field. Do some independent research – don’t rely on Law School adverts. Just saying…</p>