Hey guys,

So, I just found out that for Term 1 (we do 4 terms) (of my senior year) I got a C in AP Physics, and a C- (i think?) in AP Calc AB. My GPA from the other three years is about a 3.25. I also have a solid B in AP Statistics (I can get an A next term easily). This doesn't mean that I'll get these grades for 1st semester, or for the year, but with this, I lose all chances of getting an A or A- for the year. Maybe a B or B- is possible if I work my ass off.

The problem for me is that the level below AP is such a joke that I got a 98 last year without studying once or anything, so I don't know if it's worth dropping down.

Will colleges (film schools) see the C and C- and instantly reject me? I'm REALLY nervous that those two grades will be my downfall.

Also, should I submit with my grades a small note basically saying I'm working my ass off? (I am, I've pulled multiple 3AM nights for studying) and that the grades don't reflect how hard I work since the classes are 100% based on tests (there are a few homework grades that equate to like 10 points out of a 500 point term grade)

My portfolio, and writing samples are pretty good in my own opinion, so let's say they are impressed by them too for the sake of this discussion? lol... would they reject me based on only those grades?

Thanks a bunch guys!

This message has been edited. Last edited by: mcescalante,

I don't know how transcripts are evaluated, but if you were breezing through the non-AP classes, I think it speaks volumes that you're challenging yourself even if your grades aren't as shiny in the harder classes.

I would perhaps defer to your guidance counselor on this one regarding the note, though. What did s/he suggest?

All in all, though, keep in mind that film schools look at so much more than grades...a creative with a 3.25 or whatever you have is much more likely to succeed in film school than a non-creative with a 4.25.

As for the schools themselves, as far as USC goes, even if you don't hit the university admissions standards, if the cinema school wants you, they will override the university. You might be on probation for a semester or two, but they'll get you.

Thank you Jayimess, I really appreciate all the advice and information about the film schools

I'll definitely go talk to my guidance counselor about the note and what he thinks I should do.

I'm so glad that there are so many great people around here that can answer questions like this and guide many of us newcomers (like myself, but I am going to share the knowledge with everyone else) through the process!

Hey, I think that you're not in a terrible position, as when applying for schools, you often have the ability to write several essays in your application. If you can come up with a reasonable explanation for your C that paints you in a positive light most colleges will be willing to accept that.

Also, it really depends on the school you're applying to. NYU focuses far more importance on your creative portfolio, so let us know what schools you were thinking about and we can give you a more specific answer.

For film, I already applied to Chapman, and USC. I'm also going to apply to Loyola Marymount, NYU, Ithaca, Syracuse. Like I said before, I have extremely strong recommendations, and I think that my portfolio & activities does me justice. My grades are the only thing that make me a bit nervous.