ZETELLA W ALKER
GOOCH | Collegiate
DECA Vice President
WHETHER YOU ARE IN HIGH SCHOOL,
undergraduate studies or graduate school, it’s important to put your best foot forward and focus on your academic career. High school prepares you for college and college prepares you to take on the real world. But first, you have to get there!
Of course, having a high GPA is not everything. Due to all of the academic disruptions of the past year, many colleges and universities are placing less importance on overall GPA. They understand that the past year has been a challenge for everyone. Ultimately, they want to know that you are wellrounded and have the skills and experience needed to excel.
DOES YOUR GPA MATTER?
If your GPA is not where you want it to be, you are not alone! Here are some ways to raise or hold a steady GPA.
A solid grade point average (GPA) is important as you make plans for your future education. GPAs start to accumulate during high school, typically in ninth grade. Both your GPA and weighted classes are used to determine your class rank, which can put you in the best academic light for college placement and scholarships. While an acceptable GPA may get you into the door, a strong GPA indicates that you are competitive, hardworking and dedicated to academic success. GPA is a factor for admissions staff at most four-year universities, but the requirements and importance vary widely from one college to the next. Below is a general outline to understand your current GPA: • 3.5 to 4.0 is a high GPA • 3.0 to 3.4 is an average GPA • 3.0 or lower is a below-average GPA
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• Attend every virtual or in-person class. • Participate in class activities and discussions. • Review class material and study weekly so the content stays fresh in your mind. • Seek out teachers/professors during office hours and ask questions. • Align yourself with other stand-out students. • Take advantage of all available resources like study groups, tutors, etc. Note that a GPA lower than 3.0 may require remedial or lowerlevel college courses to be taken before more advanced courses within your chosen field. It can also prevent you from enrolling in particular programs or declaring a major until competitive grades are achieved. If you are planning on continuing to graduate school, your GPA also matters!
