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What advice would you give a high school student who got his first D, and is looking to apply to a Top 20 University?
Recently got a D+ in AP- Pre-Cal. It's my only D; The rest of my grades are mostly A's.
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Juney Dijkstra
Business Development / Production / Project Management
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Juney’s Answer
I'll caveat this by writing I didn't go through the US education system and as such can't provide guidance on the implications of GPA for University applications in the US. However, I do want to speak to the personal / emotional impact, and the relevance of grades & exams to your future career.
From a more personal / emotional angle: My personal first D-equivalent grade was a big blow to my self-esteem and confidence, and though several of them followed pre-graduation, I can confidently say no one ever questioned me about them post-graduation. As a bit of a perfectionist, I felt like I'd failed -- like I'd disappointed my teacher, my mom, and especially myself. There were circumstances, of course, but that didn't seem to matter to my perspective of myself. When I got a D average for one of my classes during my final exams, I felt so bad I retook the exam even though my class ridiculed me for retaking a passing grade (I cranked it up to a B-equivalent with the retake). Since then, at least in my industry, I've only had to upload my graduation certificate to job applications once or twice (out of hundreds), where only the binary 'confirmation of graduation' seems to have mattered to the recruitment & hiring managers. Of course, this may not hold for US universities or specific degrees, but based on what I've seen for most professions.. I'd recommend not being too hard on yourself and taking the learnings with you for the future.
For your future career: My inner perfectionist persisted as I started my first job, but its anxiety gradually improved over time as I realised that 'exams' are not representative of the practical reality of my day-to-day career. In most professions, disappointment is a misalignment of expectations, and in our ever-changing world & society, all we're able to achieve is that which is within our control, informed by the best available information & based on diverse perspectives, with mutual alignment on expectations at that point in time. We can then take the results and our findings, and reflect, analyse, iterate, learn & grow for future assignments.
As such, to prepare for any given task, it helps me to evaluate how much I'm able to do to prepare, achieve a feeling of confidence in my preparation by performing these steps & seeking diverse perspectives to inform best practice, aligning values/goals/priorities with key stakeholders, and keeping them up to date transparently & regularly if a course adjustment turns out to be required. Feeling like I've done everything within my control to meet expectations, and to reflect & carry learnings to future work, mitigates or even largely removes feelings of guilt & shame, for me.
From a more personal / emotional angle: My personal first D-equivalent grade was a big blow to my self-esteem and confidence, and though several of them followed pre-graduation, I can confidently say no one ever questioned me about them post-graduation. As a bit of a perfectionist, I felt like I'd failed -- like I'd disappointed my teacher, my mom, and especially myself. There were circumstances, of course, but that didn't seem to matter to my perspective of myself. When I got a D average for one of my classes during my final exams, I felt so bad I retook the exam even though my class ridiculed me for retaking a passing grade (I cranked it up to a B-equivalent with the retake). Since then, at least in my industry, I've only had to upload my graduation certificate to job applications once or twice (out of hundreds), where only the binary 'confirmation of graduation' seems to have mattered to the recruitment & hiring managers. Of course, this may not hold for US universities or specific degrees, but based on what I've seen for most professions.. I'd recommend not being too hard on yourself and taking the learnings with you for the future.
For your future career: My inner perfectionist persisted as I started my first job, but its anxiety gradually improved over time as I realised that 'exams' are not representative of the practical reality of my day-to-day career. In most professions, disappointment is a misalignment of expectations, and in our ever-changing world & society, all we're able to achieve is that which is within our control, informed by the best available information & based on diverse perspectives, with mutual alignment on expectations at that point in time. We can then take the results and our findings, and reflect, analyse, iterate, learn & grow for future assignments.
As such, to prepare for any given task, it helps me to evaluate how much I'm able to do to prepare, achieve a feeling of confidence in my preparation by performing these steps & seeking diverse perspectives to inform best practice, aligning values/goals/priorities with key stakeholders, and keeping them up to date transparently & regularly if a course adjustment turns out to be required. Feeling like I've done everything within my control to meet expectations, and to reflect & carry learnings to future work, mitigates or even largely removes feelings of guilt & shame, for me.
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Charlie’s Answer
One bad grade is not a deal breaker. Focus more on your GPA. Keep it as high as possible.
Here is a quick example of the effect of one D+ (1.5 out of 4.0).
Let's say your GPA is 3.9 unweighted. 1 D+ would change the GPA to 3.877 or 3.88.
If you have a number of AP and Honors classes, your Weighted GPA could be 4.24. The D+ for an AP class would bring it down to 4.21, so it has a very small impact.
Focus on your essay, extracurriculars and any leadership opportunities to increase your chances. You may also want to get a tutor for Pre-Calc if you think you will continue to struggle.
Here is a quick example of the effect of one D+ (1.5 out of 4.0).
Let's say your GPA is 3.9 unweighted. 1 D+ would change the GPA to 3.877 or 3.88.
If you have a number of AP and Honors classes, your Weighted GPA could be 4.24. The D+ for an AP class would bring it down to 4.21, so it has a very small impact.
Focus on your essay, extracurriculars and any leadership opportunities to increase your chances. You may also want to get a tutor for Pre-Calc if you think you will continue to struggle.
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John’s Answer
Don't let a single grade determine your worth; continue to strive for excellence and you'll see the fruits of your labor. Universities consider factors beyond just your GPA, so keep pushing forward, knowing that you are more than just a grade. Moreover, broaden your horizons by considering a variety of schools and universities, including those that are ambitious, safe, and prestigious.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Andrew
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Kyle’s Answer
Stay strong and give it another shot. Back in high school, I too faced a similar situation when I took AP Physics. Despite the challenges, I didn't give up but kept pushing forward. Eventually, my perseverance paid off and I managed to earn an engineering degree, followed by a master's in business administration.
Remember, you have the advantage of time and you're tackling tough subjects. Keep going, don't let setbacks deter you and stay committed. A dear friend of mine, who now holds a prestigious position as a principal mechanical engineer at a semi-conductor company, once shared a piece of wisdom with me: "C's get degrees and keep propelling you forward...never quit!"
Reach out to peers and study in groups.
Ask your teach for additional tutoring resouces.
Seek out a member of your family, community or neighborhood and ask for mentoring
Remember, you have the advantage of time and you're tackling tough subjects. Keep going, don't let setbacks deter you and stay committed. A dear friend of mine, who now holds a prestigious position as a principal mechanical engineer at a semi-conductor company, once shared a piece of wisdom with me: "C's get degrees and keep propelling you forward...never quit!"
Kyle recommends the following next steps:
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Christina’s Answer
Congratulations! You have learned one of life's toughest lessons-- a near failure can be a big blow to self-esteem, but it can teach us so much in the long run. As humans, especially those of us who are high achievers and perfectionists (points to self), this can leave a big impact. It's how you apply it that is the real challenge. I have learned over time that if I don't ask, I don't get a yes (or a no). You can ask for feedback on those no's for things you can do to improve in the long run. You can also choose to mention this lesson in your college essay, this will explain when they see the transcripts.
I am not an educator and when I applied to college it was a long time ago. I will first share my experience in applying, then I will share the experience I have recommended to my kids. First, I had a period of time in high school when my family endured a tragedy and my grades suffered. I thought it was the end of my hopes of a scholarship and surely for the school I was hoping for. I did not get into the top schools I wanted (in the ivy leagues), but I did ask why not. When they said no, they gave reasons in their letter for the most part. When I wanted more, I called and asked for more. They appreciated my tenacity and invited me to reapply as an entering Sophomore or higher once I got some more classes under my belt at the school I chose. I took this as a lesson and made it a part of my goals to get in one day. I didn't need that. I did get into a great 4 year school that invited me for an in-person interview to discuss financial possibilities as they knew that the tragedy meant that my family endured financial hardship. After the in-person interview where we talked about what I learned from that and how I will proceed going forward, I was offered a full ride. Because of this experience, I knew that was the school for me. Not only did they truly care about me as a student and not a number, but they looked for ways to help.
Secondly, I give my kids the advice that most people do not know by the age of 25 what they want to be in life. Don't hang all your hopes on a top school because you think this is what you want to (or even worse, SHOULD) do. This may end up costing you more money down the line if/when you change your mind. By attending a local school (some even chose the cheaper option of community college) and knocking out your gen. ed. credits in those 2 years, it can allow you more financial flexibility and freedom to go to the 4-year school of your choice for your major. Consider the possibility of something less expensive while you really take some time to figure it out. Taking classes and asking those already in the career you think you want is a great way to do this.
Overall, I would say - still ask and request to get into those schools. Also, apply at backup schools. You might surprise yourself and ended up liking that backup school even more than the top schools you thought you wanted! I did :)
I am not an educator and when I applied to college it was a long time ago. I will first share my experience in applying, then I will share the experience I have recommended to my kids. First, I had a period of time in high school when my family endured a tragedy and my grades suffered. I thought it was the end of my hopes of a scholarship and surely for the school I was hoping for. I did not get into the top schools I wanted (in the ivy leagues), but I did ask why not. When they said no, they gave reasons in their letter for the most part. When I wanted more, I called and asked for more. They appreciated my tenacity and invited me to reapply as an entering Sophomore or higher once I got some more classes under my belt at the school I chose. I took this as a lesson and made it a part of my goals to get in one day. I didn't need that. I did get into a great 4 year school that invited me for an in-person interview to discuss financial possibilities as they knew that the tragedy meant that my family endured financial hardship. After the in-person interview where we talked about what I learned from that and how I will proceed going forward, I was offered a full ride. Because of this experience, I knew that was the school for me. Not only did they truly care about me as a student and not a number, but they looked for ways to help.
Secondly, I give my kids the advice that most people do not know by the age of 25 what they want to be in life. Don't hang all your hopes on a top school because you think this is what you want to (or even worse, SHOULD) do. This may end up costing you more money down the line if/when you change your mind. By attending a local school (some even chose the cheaper option of community college) and knocking out your gen. ed. credits in those 2 years, it can allow you more financial flexibility and freedom to go to the 4-year school of your choice for your major. Consider the possibility of something less expensive while you really take some time to figure it out. Taking classes and asking those already in the career you think you want is a great way to do this.
Overall, I would say - still ask and request to get into those schools. Also, apply at backup schools. You might surprise yourself and ended up liking that backup school even more than the top schools you thought you wanted! I did :)
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Kim’s Answer
Andrew,
I imagine you are beating yourself up over this, as Juney described in her experiences. You are taking some very tough classes, and doing a great job!
I do have a question for you though. Did you do everything possible to head this off during the semester? Did you re-do assignments, re-take tests, get outside help? As you continue to take challenging classes, not only in HS but also in college, you may again face this situation. Make a plan now on how to deal with it. It may be that you need to employ different study techniques for this class. The good thing is that you are challenging yourself academically, and for that I applaud you!
I imagine you are beating yourself up over this, as Juney described in her experiences. You are taking some very tough classes, and doing a great job!
I do have a question for you though. Did you do everything possible to head this off during the semester? Did you re-do assignments, re-take tests, get outside help? As you continue to take challenging classes, not only in HS but also in college, you may again face this situation. Make a plan now on how to deal with it. It may be that you need to employ different study techniques for this class. The good thing is that you are challenging yourself academically, and for that I applaud you!
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Joseph’s Answer
Be ready to explain the grade and what you learned from it. How did you grow and better yourself? What did you change during the school year when you realized the course wasn't going how you wanted? What would you change if you could do it again? Though you didn't learn the material you learned from the experience. If asked about it that is what you want to be able to portray. All that said, your overall GPA is more important than any individual grade. Unless you're going into a career field where that specific subject is important I wouldn't focus to much on it. I would consider one bad grade an anomaly. Two bad grades will start to raise eyebrows. Three or more starts telling a not so flattering story.
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Patrick’s Answer
Andrew, let me start by saying, keep your head up. Encountering your first D, particularly in a tough class like AP-Pre-Cal, can feel like a setback. But it's vital to keep in mind that a single grade doesn't shape your entire educational path. Looking for extra help, whether from your teacher, a tutor, or online resources, can be a game-changer in overcoming these hurdles. Always remember that one grade doesn't determine your entire academic journey. The guidance for a high school student in this situation includes accepting and reflecting on the grade, identifying specific difficult areas, and using this as a chance to spot gaps in your learning. Here's some more advice:
First off, accept and reflect on the grade, pinpointing the specific areas that were tough. Use this as a chance to spot gaps in your learning and consider looking for extra help, whether it's from your teacher, a tutor, or online resources.
Then, bear in mind that bouncing back is key, and you'll need to show improvement in future assessments. Steady effort and a proactive stance towards academic hurdles are seen as strong signs of your commitment to learning, displaying personal growth and determination.
When it comes to university applications, concentrate on highlighting your strengths in other areas. Accentuate your high performance in other subjects and underscore any extracurricular activities, projects, or accomplishments that show your passion and commitment. Top universities often value a well-rounded individual who shows not only academic ability but also a commitment to personal growth and community involvement.
It's advisable to address the D+ in a thoughtful way in your application. Use the extra information or personal statement sections to explain the circumstances around the grade, if there were any mitigating factors. Be honest and take responsibility, while also emphasizing the lessons learned and steps taken to improve.
Finally, remember that admission to top universities is a comprehensive process. While grades are crucial, admissions officers also take into account your character, experiences, and potential to contribute positively to the university community. Approach the application process with sincerity, showing who you are beyond the grades.
Andrew, I want you to understand that it's crucial to stay on track, seek help when necessary, and view the D+ experience as a chance for personal and academic growth. Your dedication, resilience, and ability to learn from challenges can be compelling parts of your university application.
First off, accept and reflect on the grade, pinpointing the specific areas that were tough. Use this as a chance to spot gaps in your learning and consider looking for extra help, whether it's from your teacher, a tutor, or online resources.
Then, bear in mind that bouncing back is key, and you'll need to show improvement in future assessments. Steady effort and a proactive stance towards academic hurdles are seen as strong signs of your commitment to learning, displaying personal growth and determination.
When it comes to university applications, concentrate on highlighting your strengths in other areas. Accentuate your high performance in other subjects and underscore any extracurricular activities, projects, or accomplishments that show your passion and commitment. Top universities often value a well-rounded individual who shows not only academic ability but also a commitment to personal growth and community involvement.
It's advisable to address the D+ in a thoughtful way in your application. Use the extra information or personal statement sections to explain the circumstances around the grade, if there were any mitigating factors. Be honest and take responsibility, while also emphasizing the lessons learned and steps taken to improve.
Finally, remember that admission to top universities is a comprehensive process. While grades are crucial, admissions officers also take into account your character, experiences, and potential to contribute positively to the university community. Approach the application process with sincerity, showing who you are beyond the grades.
Andrew, I want you to understand that it's crucial to stay on track, seek help when necessary, and view the D+ experience as a chance for personal and academic growth. Your dedication, resilience, and ability to learn from challenges can be compelling parts of your university application.
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LEo’s Answer
Hi Andrew,
Keep your head up! Admissions boards usually look at a well rounded picture of a student, grades are not the only factor considered in getting admitted to a college.
While I think you should continue to work with your teacher and study hard.
work with your teacher to find out how you can improve your grades
Study on your own, schedule time to work on your problem areas
Keep your head up! Admissions boards usually look at a well rounded picture of a student, grades are not the only factor considered in getting admitted to a college.
While I think you should continue to work with your teacher and study hard.
LEo recommends the following next steps:
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christopher’s Answer
Your worry about this situation is a positive sign, showing your commitment and dedication. Rather than dwelling on it, try to let it go. However, don't forget how you feel right now - use it as a learning experience. Given your current position, I encourage you to keep moving forward on your journey. Remember, there are always going to be obstacles along the way. Consider this situation as just one of those bumps. Keep going, you're doing great!
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Josh’s Answer
I appreciate your openness and sincerity about your experiences and your willingness to show vulnerability.
I urge you to take the time to read all the responses here. Many of them are incredibly insightful and personal.
Don't let any setbacks discourage you. The purpose of education is to teach you how to learn, and this isn't always reflected in the grades you receive. If you've put in the effort and studied, a low grade doesn't reflect your resilience.
As this is an AP course, focus on studying the material outlined in the AP Course Content, which you can find on the college board website. This applies no matter who your professor or instructor is. Make use of all available resources, like teaching assistants, fellow students, mentors, parents, and anyone who has previously excelled in this course. If you think it would be beneficial to retake the course with a different professor, consider that option. Don't let one semester stop you from achieving your goals.
Regarding the AP Credit for this course, there are plenty of AP Practice exams online. Take as many as you can, simulating real exam conditions, and see how you score on a scale of 1-5. Your high school might also offer practice exams, so check if that's an option for you. Keep practicing, as you should see improvement over time, which will also boost your grade in the actual course.
Remember, most schools and employers look at the whole picture, so broaden your horizons and stay positive.
I urge you to take the time to read all the responses here. Many of them are incredibly insightful and personal.
Don't let any setbacks discourage you. The purpose of education is to teach you how to learn, and this isn't always reflected in the grades you receive. If you've put in the effort and studied, a low grade doesn't reflect your resilience.
As this is an AP course, focus on studying the material outlined in the AP Course Content, which you can find on the college board website. This applies no matter who your professor or instructor is. Make use of all available resources, like teaching assistants, fellow students, mentors, parents, and anyone who has previously excelled in this course. If you think it would be beneficial to retake the course with a different professor, consider that option. Don't let one semester stop you from achieving your goals.
Regarding the AP Credit for this course, there are plenty of AP Practice exams online. Take as many as you can, simulating real exam conditions, and see how you score on a scale of 1-5. Your high school might also offer practice exams, so check if that's an option for you. Keep practicing, as you should see improvement over time, which will also boost your grade in the actual course.
Remember, most schools and employers look at the whole picture, so broaden your horizons and stay positive.
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Nick’s Answer
Congratulations! If you don't get knocked down once in a while, you will never learn how to get up. Ask yourself what happened this time and make a plan to prevent it from happening again. This is a great opportunity for you to solve a real problem and solving it will be an important accomplishment. Fighting your way back to a good grade is a sign of fortitude and good character as much as how smart you are. You will need this skill for the rest of your successful life.
Check in with your teacher about it so they know not going to accept your poor result and you understand that it's up to you.
Perhaps the most important thing is ASK FOR HELP. Some people are ashamed to ask for help but it's actually a sign of strength.
Be prepared for lower grades in college where it could be a tougher environment.
Consider, if you always win, you're not playing in the right league.
It may take a few tries to improve it but I have a feeling since you generally get good grades, you are capable of fixing this problem.
Check in with your teacher about it so they know not going to accept your poor result and you understand that it's up to you.
Perhaps the most important thing is ASK FOR HELP. Some people are ashamed to ask for help but it's actually a sign of strength.
Be prepared for lower grades in college where it could be a tougher environment.
Consider, if you always win, you're not playing in the right league.
It may take a few tries to improve it but I have a feeling since you generally get good grades, you are capable of fixing this problem.
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Aisha’s Answer
Hello Andrew,
Remember, one grade doesn't define your value. Keep aiming high and you'll soon reap the rewards of your hard work. Colleges look at more than just your GPA, so keep pressing on, knowing that you're much more than a single grade. Your concern about this situation is a good thing - it shows your dedication and commitment. Instead of dwelling on it, try to move past it. However, remember how you feel at this moment - use it as a lesson for the future. Given where you are now, I urge you to keep progressing on your path. Remember, there will always be hurdles to overcome. Think of this situation as just one of those hurdles.
Keep up the good work, you're doing wonderfully!
Remember, one grade doesn't define your value. Keep aiming high and you'll soon reap the rewards of your hard work. Colleges look at more than just your GPA, so keep pressing on, knowing that you're much more than a single grade. Your concern about this situation is a good thing - it shows your dedication and commitment. Instead of dwelling on it, try to move past it. However, remember how you feel at this moment - use it as a lesson for the future. Given where you are now, I urge you to keep progressing on your path. Remember, there will always be hurdles to overcome. Think of this situation as just one of those hurdles.
Keep up the good work, you're doing wonderfully!