10 answers
Cecilia
Student
Portland, Oregon
2
Questions
Updated
2651 views
How forgiving are colleges about grades? Do they care about who I am beyond my GPA?
Hello all, I am a sophomore in high school! And how has your day been?
I'd like to ask, do colleges care who you are beyond your GPA/resume? Last year, I averaged a 3.5 GPA first semester and a 3.8 GPA second semester. I'm taking half of the APs my friends are, and not taking any AP science courses that colleges like. Only AP Pysch.
Last summer, I slipped in heavy (actual, prescribed medication-wise) depression and made measly grades first semester of this year. I'm taking classes I enjoy next year (General Psych and Anatomy Honors), but I won't be taking any APs I can't handle.
I really, really, really! want to be a psychiatrist due to my own specific struggles, and I know the prereqs will be extremely difficult...
But I'm wondering-do colleges care about who I am, and my story? Will I have a chance to explain my grades is the better question. Or will they just see another discardable applicant?
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10 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey there, Cecilia!
First off, your dream of becoming a psychiatrist is beautiful — and just the fact that you're turning your struggles into a mission to help others already makes you one special soul. The world needs more doctors who truly understand what it feels like to be on the other side of the table.
Okay, let's get real about this whole GPA thing. The truth is — YES, colleges absolutely care about who you are beyond your grades. Especially in fields like psychiatry, your story matters just as much as your transcript. Many schools have an optional section on their application where you can explain any hardships you've faced, and I highly recommend using that space. Be honest. Be vulnerable. Let them see the person behind those numbers. Admissions officers are human too — they know life isn’t always a perfect straight line.
Now, if you're worried about not taking a ton of AP classes — that's totally okay. Quality always matters more than quantity. You're already showing so much wisdom by choosing classes you're genuinely passionate about, like psychology and anatomy. Psychiatry isn't about memorizing a million facts — it's about understanding people. And you're already doing that by learning what works best for you.
You're not behind, girl, you're exactly where you're meant to be. Your story isn't a setback but, it's your superpower.
Keep going, future Dr. Cecilia — I'm already picturing you with that white coat, changing lives one heart at a time. 🤍
Volunteer at mental health organizations, crisis hotlines, or local hospitals. Even something like peer counseling at school can show you're serious about this path.
Start or join clubs that raise awareness about mental health. If there's nothing like that at your school, guess what? You can be the one to start it.
Shadow a psychiatrist or therapist — Reach out to local clinics or hospitals to see if they offer any shadowing opportunities. It gives you hands-on experience and looks great on applications
Keep a little notebook where you write down everything you're learning — both in school and about yourself. This will not only help you process your own experiences but might also come in handy for personal statements when you're applying to college.
Taking care of your own mental health is just as important as any class you'll ever take. Learning how to balance your well-being now will make you an even better psychiatrist in the future.
First off, your dream of becoming a psychiatrist is beautiful — and just the fact that you're turning your struggles into a mission to help others already makes you one special soul. The world needs more doctors who truly understand what it feels like to be on the other side of the table.
Okay, let's get real about this whole GPA thing. The truth is — YES, colleges absolutely care about who you are beyond your grades. Especially in fields like psychiatry, your story matters just as much as your transcript. Many schools have an optional section on their application where you can explain any hardships you've faced, and I highly recommend using that space. Be honest. Be vulnerable. Let them see the person behind those numbers. Admissions officers are human too — they know life isn’t always a perfect straight line.
Now, if you're worried about not taking a ton of AP classes — that's totally okay. Quality always matters more than quantity. You're already showing so much wisdom by choosing classes you're genuinely passionate about, like psychology and anatomy. Psychiatry isn't about memorizing a million facts — it's about understanding people. And you're already doing that by learning what works best for you.
You're not behind, girl, you're exactly where you're meant to be. Your story isn't a setback but, it's your superpower.
Keep going, future Dr. Cecilia — I'm already picturing you with that white coat, changing lives one heart at a time. 🤍
Dr recommends the following next steps:
This was veyy helpful thank you so much Dr H
Cheeky
Thank you so much Dr H, that makes me feel so much better and more motivated! :)
I actually do talk helpline volunteering! I stopped for a while because I knew I needed to take a break, and what help would I be if I couldn't people my full attention? But this answer makes me feel more motivated to continue helping others, so thank you so much!
Cecilia
You rock, thanks this us really helpful.
Zaroon
Dr. H,
Your suggestions are so relevant and absolutely to the point!
Betzy Scaria
Cecilia, that’s such a wise decision to take care of yourself first — it shows just how thoughtful and caring you are! 🌟 The world needs hearts like yours, and even small steps of kindness can ripple out in ways you can't imagine. Keep shining and helping others — your light makes a difference!
And, Cheeky, I'm so glad to hear that! Keep going, you're doing amazing! 💪
Dr H
Betzy Scaria, thank you so much for your kind words! Coming from you, your encouragement truly means a lot. I'm deeply grateful for your support and insight! 🌸
Dr H
I'm deeply grateful for the unwavering support and encouragement from this wonderful community. Your kindness and belief in my words inspire me to keep giving my best. Thank you for being a constant source of strength and positivity.
Dr H
Dina R. D'Alessandro, your support is truly appreciated! Knowledge grows best when shared—thank you!
Dr H
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Cecilia !
I can reassure you that you have nothing to worry about and yes, you can become a Psychiatrist. You have to relax and enjoy the process. To be honest with you, you seem to have a handle on things and just try not to underestimate yourself. You can do this. Never compare yourself to others, either. You will have your own special academic and work experience for this career.
Your more important phase of the journey is going to be your undergraduate study for your Bachelors Degree. That is what Medical School will be looking at. Take all the classes you want to take in high school. High School is a time to sharpen your basic skills so that you will be prepared for college no matter what your Major is.
It would be great to consider volunteer work of any kind while in high school. I don't recommend shadowing because shadowing is for people that are not sure about certain careers and you sure do seem positive that you know which career you want. Also, shadowing will not show you how it will be for you. Shadowing a Psychiatrist is also intrusive to the patient's privacy. So I would advise going for volunteer work - it doesn't matter where.
As a college student majoring in Psychology, you will most likely get experience through Work Study jobs on campus, Internships, special projects, different volunteer opportunities that focus on mental health. It's perfectly fine to wait for college for this as more doors will be open as your path unfolds at that time.
How much to tell the college . . . I would advise that if you have to write an essay for your particular college, keep it positive and that includes your accomplishments. All you have achieved in and outside of high school. Focus on your passion about human behavior, but keep it positive. Everyone has overcome some adversity in life, but for college essays, I advise keeping it upbeat, positive and confident. You'll want to spark the college's interest and delight, not tell them everything about your personal life. This approach is sure to work for you. Never ever explain your grades to a college - it's like admitting something negative. Trust me, there is a college you can attend - whether it be starting at a community college or starting at a university.
That being said, no matter what college you enroll at, there will be great supports on campus for any issues you may have. My advice is to keep your personal health private between you and any social worker or counselor you may see. You are much, much more than a diagnosis. Let the world see who you really are. It's all in the choices that you make and keeping your issues at bay will open a lot of doors for you. Not everyone out there is supportive or understanding.
I hope this helps and that it can alleviate any worry you may have ! Enjoy the process !
I can reassure you that you have nothing to worry about and yes, you can become a Psychiatrist. You have to relax and enjoy the process. To be honest with you, you seem to have a handle on things and just try not to underestimate yourself. You can do this. Never compare yourself to others, either. You will have your own special academic and work experience for this career.
Your more important phase of the journey is going to be your undergraduate study for your Bachelors Degree. That is what Medical School will be looking at. Take all the classes you want to take in high school. High School is a time to sharpen your basic skills so that you will be prepared for college no matter what your Major is.
It would be great to consider volunteer work of any kind while in high school. I don't recommend shadowing because shadowing is for people that are not sure about certain careers and you sure do seem positive that you know which career you want. Also, shadowing will not show you how it will be for you. Shadowing a Psychiatrist is also intrusive to the patient's privacy. So I would advise going for volunteer work - it doesn't matter where.
As a college student majoring in Psychology, you will most likely get experience through Work Study jobs on campus, Internships, special projects, different volunteer opportunities that focus on mental health. It's perfectly fine to wait for college for this as more doors will be open as your path unfolds at that time.
How much to tell the college . . . I would advise that if you have to write an essay for your particular college, keep it positive and that includes your accomplishments. All you have achieved in and outside of high school. Focus on your passion about human behavior, but keep it positive. Everyone has overcome some adversity in life, but for college essays, I advise keeping it upbeat, positive and confident. You'll want to spark the college's interest and delight, not tell them everything about your personal life. This approach is sure to work for you. Never ever explain your grades to a college - it's like admitting something negative. Trust me, there is a college you can attend - whether it be starting at a community college or starting at a university.
That being said, no matter what college you enroll at, there will be great supports on campus for any issues you may have. My advice is to keep your personal health private between you and any social worker or counselor you may see. You are much, much more than a diagnosis. Let the world see who you really are. It's all in the choices that you make and keeping your issues at bay will open a lot of doors for you. Not everyone out there is supportive or understanding.
I hope this helps and that it can alleviate any worry you may have ! Enjoy the process !
Thank you for this incredibly written, incredibly informative answer, Michelle! Do colleges matter a significant amount, due to LORs and the connections? Would you say it's better to attend a smaller college with a lower overall GPA to stand out or a bigger college with more "knowledgeable" professors?
Cecilia
It depends on the student and what their particular circumstances are. Apply to any college that you are interested in. All professors are experts in their field and are accredited and have great experience.
Michelle M.
Perry Zuckerman
Psychiatrist
33
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Perry’s Answer
Hello Cecilia,
I AM a psychiatrist - MD [ MD - don't forget that].
I'm here to help you and that obligates me to give you reality. You certainly can make it, but it is a LONG journey [12 years], and the only way to complete it is to take it one day at a time. As you are in it, if you look ahead at the whole picture at once, you will panic and quit [I know, I almost did once]. One day at a time and you can do it as I did.
Now, in college, whatever you major in [which is fine], you still must take all of the requirements for medical school, which is two years of chemistry, one year of biology, one year of physics, one year of calculus, and one year of English. There are a few more little details that vary from school to school.
For getting into medical school yes, extracurricular activities are important, including participating in some Professor's medical research and then things that you like of any nature. But the fact remains that high grades are the most important thing. And high MCAT scores are 2nd.
When you get to medical school [which also requires a LOT of work], you may still know that you want to be a psychiatyrist, or you be then undecided about which medical specialty that you want to go into. That is fine.
If still want to go into psychiatry [or whatever medical specialty you choose], you apply for programs in the 4th year. Once in psychiatry residency, it is another 4 years, including 6 months of general medical work. But in residency, you will actually be practicing psychiatry as a resident, under the supervision of fully trained psychiatrists.
If this biological science medical emphasis is not for you, you can consider a career in Psychology, maybe Clinical Psychology. Less science, more therapy and "issues", but there is a science to Psychology too. This requires a graduate PhD or PsyD program after college. Psychologists can tell you more about it.
Don't forget to live some life and have some fun as you go along. Set aside a part of each week for that [mainly weekends].
I hope this helps.
Please ask me any questions you have.
Best of good fortune to you, which you will make yourself.
Perry
I AM a psychiatrist - MD [ MD - don't forget that].
I'm here to help you and that obligates me to give you reality. You certainly can make it, but it is a LONG journey [12 years], and the only way to complete it is to take it one day at a time. As you are in it, if you look ahead at the whole picture at once, you will panic and quit [I know, I almost did once]. One day at a time and you can do it as I did.
Now, in college, whatever you major in [which is fine], you still must take all of the requirements for medical school, which is two years of chemistry, one year of biology, one year of physics, one year of calculus, and one year of English. There are a few more little details that vary from school to school.
For getting into medical school yes, extracurricular activities are important, including participating in some Professor's medical research and then things that you like of any nature. But the fact remains that high grades are the most important thing. And high MCAT scores are 2nd.
When you get to medical school [which also requires a LOT of work], you may still know that you want to be a psychiatyrist, or you be then undecided about which medical specialty that you want to go into. That is fine.
If still want to go into psychiatry [or whatever medical specialty you choose], you apply for programs in the 4th year. Once in psychiatry residency, it is another 4 years, including 6 months of general medical work. But in residency, you will actually be practicing psychiatry as a resident, under the supervision of fully trained psychiatrists.
If this biological science medical emphasis is not for you, you can consider a career in Psychology, maybe Clinical Psychology. Less science, more therapy and "issues", but there is a science to Psychology too. This requires a graduate PhD or PsyD program after college. Psychologists can tell you more about it.
Don't forget to live some life and have some fun as you go along. Set aside a part of each week for that [mainly weekends].
I hope this helps.
Please ask me any questions you have.
Best of good fortune to you, which you will make yourself.
Perry
Thank you so much for your individual advice, it really helped so much! How do the prereqs spread out for undergrad? Are all the classes you listed the ONLY prereqs for four years? Would you also say you got to relax a bit on weekends, as I usually take that time to recharge? Or did you study every single day for many hours? I know time management will be crucial in this period.
Cecilia
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Zaroon
Hi Ceclia, The medical school requirements that I listed [Chemistry, etc.] are all generally taken in the first two years, and those are close to the only requirements. You can find out online. You can major in whatever you want [maybe Psychology]; but you will have to satisfy the requirements of your major AND medical school requirements. I pretty much studied at least a few hours every day. College is hard, but it is also a wonderful time, one of the best times of your life, with so many things to do, people to meet, and friends to make. You will learn your own weekly pace, how much fun you can have, when to relax, while not neglecting your studying at all. It took me about 3 months. Ask anything. Remember Cecilia, I was once in your shoes. Perry
Perry Zuckerman
Betzy Scaria
2
Answers
Broadview Heights, Ohio
Updated
Betzy’s Answer
Dear Friends,
Is GPA the only key factor that determines your college admission? Not at all. College admissions teams consider many components beyond just grades. They assess the different avenues you have explored—volunteering, involvement in sports, clubs, and other extracurricular activities. Being an officer in a club or a captain on a sports team can also help pave the way to success.
Aim for the stars, and even if you don’t reach them, you will land on the moon. A change in GPA from 3.5 to 3.8 is a great achievement. Everyone faces difficult days, weeks, months, or even years. It's your willpower and courage to rise above adversity that matters most. It's okay to stumble, as long as you can display your strengths rather than focusing on setbacks. Nobody is perfect.
Consider something called the Congressional Award—Google it, and you'll discover how you can unleash your potential by exploring a variety of areas. This could be a great stepping stone to thrive in the face of challenges.
Yours Truly,
Betzy
Is GPA the only key factor that determines your college admission? Not at all. College admissions teams consider many components beyond just grades. They assess the different avenues you have explored—volunteering, involvement in sports, clubs, and other extracurricular activities. Being an officer in a club or a captain on a sports team can also help pave the way to success.
Aim for the stars, and even if you don’t reach them, you will land on the moon. A change in GPA from 3.5 to 3.8 is a great achievement. Everyone faces difficult days, weeks, months, or even years. It's your willpower and courage to rise above adversity that matters most. It's okay to stumble, as long as you can display your strengths rather than focusing on setbacks. Nobody is perfect.
Consider something called the Congressional Award—Google it, and you'll discover how you can unleash your potential by exploring a variety of areas. This could be a great stepping stone to thrive in the face of challenges.
Yours Truly,
Betzy
Thank you for your kind answer, Betzy! I really love that line that you wrote, "Aim for the stars, and even if you don't reach them, you will land on the moon." This is a humbling perception of reality that I really needed! I'll keep this in mind in the future :)
Cecilia
Ava Lillesand
Optician
1
Answer
Charleston, South Carolina
Updated
Ava’s Answer
Hey Cecilia!
First, I want you to know you're not alone in your struggles. I was in a similar place as you when it came to high school and applying to colleges. Most colleges have a "personal statement" section on the application or something with a similar name. This section allows you to add anything else admissions staff may want to know about you. If you haven't already discussed your situation in your main essay, I would include it in the "personal statement" section. I had a tough time over COVID-19 between virtual learning and my own mental health. I made sure to include this in my "personal statement." There is a fine line between explaining why something happened and making excuses, so just be mindful of your verbiage. You are more than just a grade on a paper!
Second, I want you to know that you can do anything if you want it bad enough and work hard. I am currently studying biology with an end goal of optometry school. Never in a million years did I think I would be a STEM major. I was not fond of sciences and preferred English and reading. Like you, life experiences have sparked a passion in me. Don't let the prerequisites scare you. They can be challenging, but there will be resources for you, and you should use them if necessary. There is no shame in asking for help!
Lastly, I recommend looking into working or volunteering in the field you want to go into. This is a great way to get experience and show your passion for the topic. This can go a long way when it comes time to apply for college and grad school. It's not everything, but it helps.
Keep working hard. Trust me, you'll find a place that sees you for all of you. Best of luck to you!
First, I want you to know you're not alone in your struggles. I was in a similar place as you when it came to high school and applying to colleges. Most colleges have a "personal statement" section on the application or something with a similar name. This section allows you to add anything else admissions staff may want to know about you. If you haven't already discussed your situation in your main essay, I would include it in the "personal statement" section. I had a tough time over COVID-19 between virtual learning and my own mental health. I made sure to include this in my "personal statement." There is a fine line between explaining why something happened and making excuses, so just be mindful of your verbiage. You are more than just a grade on a paper!
Second, I want you to know that you can do anything if you want it bad enough and work hard. I am currently studying biology with an end goal of optometry school. Never in a million years did I think I would be a STEM major. I was not fond of sciences and preferred English and reading. Like you, life experiences have sparked a passion in me. Don't let the prerequisites scare you. They can be challenging, but there will be resources for you, and you should use them if necessary. There is no shame in asking for help!
Lastly, I recommend looking into working or volunteering in the field you want to go into. This is a great way to get experience and show your passion for the topic. This can go a long way when it comes time to apply for college and grad school. It's not everything, but it helps.
Keep working hard. Trust me, you'll find a place that sees you for all of you. Best of luck to you!
Evangeline Watkins
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
36
Answers
Santa Ana, California
Updated
Evangeline’s Answer
I relate heavily to this. In my freshman year of high school I had above a 4.0 GPA and it looked like I was doing great. In my sophomore year depression hit me hard and this was 2020 so then covid hit me harder. I ended up not attending any of my online classes that year and had to go to a continuation school for a year in order to return and get back on track for graduation. Guess what? I still made it to college! I'm graduating with my associate's degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography in 2 months and I could not be happier with how things turned out. In order to become a psychiatrist, you will need to get a bachelor's degree (probably in a medical/science realm) and then apply to med school. Med schools could not care less about your grades from high school. As long as your college GPA is decent and you do well on the MCAT, they'll be happy. If you're looking to go to a university right away for your bachelor's, you may not get in right away (depending on where you apply), but there are two things that work in your favor here: 1. you have 2 years left until you graduate. That's 2 years to get back on track, get your GPA up, take care of your mental health, and develop good study habits. 2. You can always go to a community college and transfer credits. Mostly all med schools will accept transfer credits from community, but some science classes will have to be taken at a university. Look up the requirements for prerequisites and see what will be accepted by what med schools you want to apply to. Another good thing? Colleges unfortunately love their applicants to struggle. Your story makes up who you are and when writing a personal statement for med school or university, they will ask you your "why?". This asks why you want to go to that school and into that field. You know why and you have the drive to get it done. Honestly? I think you'll be fine. We all struggle and it's okay to mess up sometimes. Be kind to yourself and make sure to prioritize your mental health (especially since you're going to be under stress from school!) Remember it's okay to ask for help and go at your own pace. My boyfriend is premed. He had his own mental health struggles, so he took 5 years to get a bachelor's degree and went to community college for the first 2 years. Now he's interning at Kaiser and is applying to med school next year. You're still young. Most kids don't even know what they want to do at your age, so you have a major advantage there. Stay on track and remember not to give up. Hang in there
Braelee Hernandez
Student (pre- physical therapy)
5
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Braelee’s Answer
Hey Cecilia! Colleges absolutely care about who you are beyond your GPA! While grades are important, admissions officers also look at the bigger picture—your passions, personal growth, resilience, and potential to succeed in college and beyond. Many colleges offer a chance to explain unusual dips in academic performance, whether through an optional essay, additional information section on applications, or even letters of recommendation. Your story—how you overcame challenges, learned from them, and found motivation to pursue psychiatry—can actually make you a more compelling applicant.
In your case, demonstrating a strong upward trend in grades and showing that you’re taking classes aligned with your interests will help. If you can, continue engaging in activities related to psychiatry, mental health advocacy, or volunteering. This will reinforce your passion and commitment.
You are *far* from a “discardable applicant.” Colleges value authenticity and perseverance, and your story could make you stand out. Keep working hard, prioritize your well-being, and know that there are many paths to achieving your goal!
In your case, demonstrating a strong upward trend in grades and showing that you’re taking classes aligned with your interests will help. If you can, continue engaging in activities related to psychiatry, mental health advocacy, or volunteering. This will reinforce your passion and commitment.
You are *far* from a “discardable applicant.” Colleges value authenticity and perseverance, and your story could make you stand out. Keep working hard, prioritize your well-being, and know that there are many paths to achieving your goal!
Thank you so much for answering, Braelee! This advice is very uplifting, and I will 100% take it to heart. Thank you for your kind insight! :))
Cecilia
Sara Solomon
Doctor of Pharmacy Student
15
Answers
Bridgewater, Massachusetts
Updated
Sara’s Answer
Your passion for becoming a psychiatrist is really inspiring! I took just two AP classes in high school and now I'm working towards a doctorate in pharmacy. AP classes can help save money by earning college credits early. While your GPA is important for college applications, your essays matter even more. Sharing how you've grown from past experiences can really make you shine, especially for the program you want. Keep believing in yourself!
Alexandra Grossano
Dietetic Technician Registered
6
Answers
Scottsdale, Arizona
Updated
Alexandra’s Answer
Most colleges aren't focused on your High School GPA...
GPA comes into play when applying to specialized schools, careers and programs: Law School, Dietitian, MD/DO, Nursing....and of course Ivy League schools.
My advice is to shape up in college and prove to yourself that you can get a 4.0!
I don't even remember my HS GPA.
My bachelor's degree GPA was just under 3.0
My master's degree GPA was a 4.0
YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!
GPA comes into play when applying to specialized schools, careers and programs: Law School, Dietitian, MD/DO, Nursing....and of course Ivy League schools.
My advice is to shape up in college and prove to yourself that you can get a 4.0!
I don't even remember my HS GPA.
My bachelor's degree GPA was just under 3.0
My master's degree GPA was a 4.0
YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!
THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!!! :))))
is it true that med schools look at your ap class grades, still?
Cecilia
Cecilia- you are so welcome :) As for AP classes, this could be true. I never took AP classes in HS but I can imagine a college admissions panel may look at those as they are higher level classes.
Alexandra Grossano
Asees Bajwa
caregiver, medtech
2
Answers
Tracy, California
Updated
Asees’s Answer
Colleges care about more than just your GPA, but how much depends on where you’re applying. If your grades aren’t perfect, don’t stress, show them you’re more than just numbers. Growth matters, so if you’ve improved over time or have a solid reason for a rough patch, that helps. Get involved in things that show who you are, like research, volunteering, or jobs related to your goals. At the end of the day, they want motivated students, not just straight-A robots.