Where did your "poor GPA but great everything else" friend/child/classmate get in?

Applying to College
1

After being deffered from my ED extreme-reach school, rejected from two schools which are a safety for most people on here, it was with shock that I read the EA acceptance letter attached to the portal of my ultimate dream school. I was accepted to a university with a single digit acceptance rate, but more importantly, I gained admission to a school that both fits me and my academic interests/goals perfectly.

My UW GPA was a 2.6, my ACT a 33. I did have extenuating circumstances and a major turn around/upward climb, but I did terribly my first two years of high school. In all honesty, I was surprised that my application was even looked at, but I no longer doubt that admissions truly are holistic. Outside of my transcript, I had excellent essays, EC’s, and recommendations. I worked hard in everything I did, and in the end my past could not hinder me.

For all those younger students browsing this forum, you can turn it around. I am not saying that my case is typical, but saving your grades and digging yourself out of whatever hole your life has gotten you into…it is worth it. Don’t do it for an elite college, but for yourself. I am so proud of the person I have become, regardless of the paths I wandered…

It was my hopes to hear some more input from cases similar to my own. I have read pretty much every single one on here, and I would love to hear more.

Additional info:

  • I did not qualify/apply for for financial aid
  • I am a U.S citizen
  • I attend a public school
2

Very happy for you. You forged ahead and had quite a positive result. Congratulations.

3

what school did you get into

4

It would be very useful to give us a little more information. Are you a first generation student, an underrepresented minority, or do you have some other unique factor that made you stand out? The three things you listed are meaningless. Tons of stduents fitting those criteria are accepted.

If anything, you are a textbook case of exactly why holistic admissions work. I am not sure why you doubt that admissions are holistic. If what you say is correct, it is the only explanation for why you were accepted. You obviously did very well to overcome your earlier grades, and I know a little about your story from another thread. You can be proud of yourself. Your story will be more inspiring to others if you provide context.

5

She said she no longer doubts that admissions are holistic, i.e., her experience has confirmed for her that admissions to selective schools are, in fact, holistic.

6

@Aida , of,course, I read that differently first time. Thanks.