Poor First Semester, how do I ensure a 2020 Position?

Hey Everyone,

I am currently an incoming sophomore at a Target school in Canada. My first year (marks wise) wasn't the greatest, first semester average was very poor, and despite a strong bounce back in second semester, my average still is very low (~75-76%). I know for a fact that next year I will be able to continue the trend of my second semester and bring in high 80s and potentially low 90s, but I am worried how much of an impact my first semester will have on me 2020 Recruiting wise.

Outside of marks, I have high positions in large clubs on campus, alongside strong volunteering positions. I additionally have landed an internship at a startup for this upcoming summer and hope to land an Analyst position at my school Investment Fund next year.

Any advice on how I can ensure success for 2020 Summer Recruitment?

Thanks!

4 Comments
 
Most Helpful

I would not recommend the above strategy... most applications ask for cumulative GPA. Major GPA is sometimes seen, but the implication then is that cumulative is low. "Pro Forma GPA Excluding My Poor Semester" is not an acceptable breakout.

You are only a freshman and with more credits your first semester will count for much less. Do much better in school as a start - you should be getting 90s ideally to bring up your first semester. Meet with your teachers, better study habits, whatever that takes. If you can get up to a 3.5 cumulative (around an 87-89%) you can put your better major GPA on your resume ahead of that, and still be in the running for IB recruiting. Also... 2020 SA spots are mostly for juniors, you're looking for 2021.

If you can take any online classes or summer courses, they will help bring your GPA up in the meantime. Load up on easy elective classes over the next two semesters as well.

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