Preparing to Transfer to GS years from now. Help please!

nickdrake
Tue, 14 Jun 2016 16:23:59 +0000

I would argue that your chances of admission from a four-year university are marginally increased if you attend a four-year university over a community college. Again, I want to stress that it would only be a MARGINAL boost - GS actively recruits students from certain community colleges, and the admissions board is very accustomed to reviewing applications from students attending two-year colleges. However, four-year universities are traditionally more rigorous and well-established, so if I were on an admissions board, I would equate a students’ 3.5 GPA from the University of Houston with another’s 3.8 GPA from Lone Star Community College. Having said that, there are also so many variables to take into consideration here as well (major, reputation of community college) so I can’t say anything with certainty - I’m just speculating. In the interest of saving money, I would focus on the specific classes that each school offers, and whether or not they would transfer to GS in 2019. Is Lone Star Community College a reputable two-year university? What is their transfer rate like for other students, and have students transferred from there to other prestigious universities (say, UT Austin)?

As it stands right now, I think you have a great shot at getting into GS in two years. Taking care of your family at your age suggests that you have a fairly nontraditional background, and if conveyed well in an essay, will certainly earn the respect of the GS admissions board. Definitely aim for a 3.7+ at whichever school you choose to attend, and I wouldn’t even recommend re-taking the SAT - your scores are good for 8 years I believe, and a 2200 is above the average score they usually receive (I believe that’s about a 2050). Also, I’d suggest getting involved in certain on-campus activities as well - or, if that’s not your style, getting an internship - the committee likes applicants with practical, real-life experience. Good luck! @Serena130