@CaliCash Personally, I took accountability for my actions. I joined a fellowship that helped me quit and I completely changed my habits. It was hard as ****, but I did it. I also gave back to the community and showed leadership and initiative.
I actually wrote about this for my Vanderbilt supplement essay. Apparently they liked it enough.
Not sure if OP would have as strong of an “I changed” story. It would have to be stronger than mine considering his GPA. That’s why I recommend that he stay another year; distancing himself from his high school record would increase his chances (especially if he’s aiming for top 20s–he’s gonna need a lot, a lot of luck).
I know I got rejected the first time around because I applied to only Ivy Leagues my senior year and wrote crappy essays. Also, no real ECs to speak of besides gaming.