Veteran at a target school with a lower than average GPA

I'm at an Ivy target school as a Sophomore, study political science, play varsity sports and served in the Marines for five years. I failed one class and it killed my GPA and now I'm at a 3.0.

I seemingly have a few prospects at some of the BB's and have received votes of confidence and my requests to list people as referrals on my 2020 internship applications have been met with enthusiasm.

I still for some reason think I'm getting lip service though and that I'm punching above my weight class going for BB's. I'm obviously working towards improving my academic performance.

Am I out of luck for the most part or would I likely have better results and be met with more enthusiasm if I expressed interest to boutique firms?

Thanks

 

Don't discount the people willing to vouch for you, but you're right it is going to be tough. I would cast a very wide net, which most people will tell you to do anyway, but your story as a veteran and athlete may help.

The hardest thing for you is going to be getting your GPA up before interview season starts, because since you're likely at a target, it is going to begin before your semester is over and new grades factor into your GPA. If these people vouch for you and get you past the resume screen, hopefully your in person interviews or phone screens begin in May once you are out of school and can show the improved GPA

“If you ain’t first, you’re last!” - GOAT
 

No doubt, I think you have a unique background, but I think to get into a worthwhile program (top 15 at least) you are going to need some work experience. Some schools may overlook that since you have military service as work experience though. Definitely no harm in scouting this route and asking an advisor, just don't settle for a sub-par program since you are at a great school currently

“If you ain’t first, you’re last!” - GOAT
 

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