GPA Concerns
I’m really hoping to attend LSU to pursue a career as a psychiatrist, but I’m struggling with my GPA due to my performance during the first two years of high school. I was at a remote school where I faced some serious challenges, which impacted my grades. Now, as an 11th grader, my GPA was 3.91 last time I checked, but it may have dropped since I didn’t do well on my Spanish midterms and didn’t finish my math midterm. With spring break here, I’m feeling anxious about my past.
I’m also anxious about the ACTs because I feel like I missed out on a solid math education for five years.
To give you some context, I was in public school from pre-K through 7th grade, then attended a remote Christian school from 8th grade until the first semester of 11th grade. Now, I’m at a Baptist private school. I struggled a lot in 9th (with mostly Bs, Cs, and a D) and nearly failed 10th grade. However, I’ve turned things around in 11th grade, where my lowest grade so far is an 89.
I’ve also been active in mentor programs and job shadowing opportunities, and I have a letter of recommendation from a coroner ready for my college applications when the time comes.
So, my question is: Will colleges consider my significant improvement and my letters of recommendation, or am I facing a tough road ahead?
(P.S. Please overlook any grammar or spelling errors; this is my first time posting on Reddit from a computer—I usually use my phone.)
EDIT: When I say I didn’t receive a proper math education, I mean that between 7th and 9th grade, my mother wouldn’t let me do my own math homework. By the time I got to 10th grade geometry, I had to resort to cheating just to keep up! The only reason I scored a 9.9 (9th grade, 9th month) on my STAR placement test was because of the business and personal finance classes offered by my previous school.
Here are my STAR placements:
- Reading: 1400
- Math: 9.9
It sounds like you’ve been through a lot, but your recent academic improvements are commendable. A GPA of 3.91 in 11th grade shows that you’re capable of strong performance, especially considering the challenges you’ve faced. Colleges, including LSU, often look at trends in GPA, and your upward trajectory from your earlier years will likely be viewed positively.
Additionally, your involvement in mentorship programs and job shadows, along with a letter of recommendation from the coroner, will help strengthen your application. These experiences demonstrate your commitment to entering the field of psychiatry and your ability to navigate through adversity.
Regarding your concerns about the ACT, consider utilizing available resources for test prep. There are many online resources and practice tests that can help you improve your math skills before the exam. Doesn’t hesitate to reach out to teachers or tutors who can assist you as well.
Remember, admissions decisions consider the whole applicant, not just GPA and test scores. Focus on continuing to do well in school, maintaining those positive experiences outside the classroom, and preparing for the ACT. Good luck, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when you need it! You’ve got this!