Update: NJ, Orphan, GPA 2.2,Many Activities

College Search & Lists
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Read Old Thread First
http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1664745-nj-orphan-gpa-2-2-many-activities-what-are-my-chances.html#latest

I’m sure most of you never saw my thread but I was inspired/encouraged to give an update about my situation. As my old thread explained; I was orphaned at 15 had a rather low GPA, and was genuinely worried about my future. I went to an elite prep school and everyone around me were committing to some of the best universities in the country… I had no backup plan, but I knew I wanted more for myself.

Now:

I currently live in DC, I attend Howard University (a historically black university), and work part time as an office assistant. Howard accepted me right before graduation, and gave me the scholarships/financial aid I needed. I work part time to cover small expenses and I receive additional help from my brother who became a nurse this year. I have a pretty good system going, all things considered.

Advice:

To any college student (rising or matriculating) who has lost one or both parents, a guardian, or simply doing it on your own: DO NOT GIVE UP! It is POSSIBLE. It’s hard work but attending a 4 year university, even with a less than ideal situation as my own, can be achieved. I am no guru but these are a few tips that made my success a reality:

  1. I hounded the financial aid office of every university that accepted me until they either increased my aid or gave me concrete alternatives.
  2. DO NOT accept "senioritis" like the most of your friends with high GPAs. Though many will try to empathize with your situation(s), its not a guarantee, and the higher your GPA/scores, the more people will want to help you!
  3. Apply far and wide. If you're in a financially tight circumstance, you may qualify for free college apps. Do not let anyone tell you any university is too far or too unattainable.

Like I said, I’m no guru, but this is what worked for me. You never know what can happen until you try. And once you’re in college promise to defeat the obstacles that made the admission process a struggle.

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Congratulations and I wish you continued success.

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Yay this is great news to hear! I wish you the best of luck.

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Congratulations, and thank you so much for the update!
It is always so inspiring you see young people who suffer greatly, are forced to “grow up” very quickly because of pain , are knocked down by obstacles life threw their way, feel stuck, yet manage to overcome these great difficulties that would slay many an adult, and make a life for themselves. Your acceptance to Howard is really impressive and your current life sounds like it’s miles from what it used to be when you were a scared, confused, lonely kid in NJ, 3 years ago. Your resilience is admirable. I wish you the best of luck. :slight_smile:

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Congratulations! Here is to your continued success and continuing to serve as an inspiration for generations of students to come.