12 answers
Jolyssa
Student
York, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Asked
3838 views
COLLEGE ADMISSION
Hello, I am an upcoming senior of class 26. I want to major in business marketing after high school but I don’t know where to start with college. My Gpa aims within 2.0 - 3.0. My dream college is the University of Maryland but I know I am not smart emotionally get in. What are some ways I can improve to get into a good college.
12 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1942
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Attending a community college can be a strategic way to improve your GPA Jolyssa, especially if you struggled in high school. Community colleges offer a fresh start and a chance to demonstrate improved academic performance. Your community college GPA will be separate from your high school GPA, but it can significantly impact your chances of transferring to the University of Maryland.
CHANCE TO IMPROVE YOUR GPA
Your high school GPA remains static after graduation. When you attend community college, you start with a clean slate, and your community college GPA is calculated based on your coursework there. The admissions committees at the University of Maryland will consider both your high school and community college GPAs, but they will pay close attention to your community college performance, as it reflects your most recent academic abilities.
MEET WITH YOUR COMMUNITY COLLEGE ACADEMIC ADVISOR TO SET GPA GOAL
By proactively engaging with your academic advisor, you can develop a comprehensive plan to set and achieve your GPA goals, ultimately leading to greater academic success and a more fulfilling community college experience. By taking a proactive approach and partnering with your community college advisor, it is possible to set effective GPA goals, develop a strategic plan, and increase chances of academic success.
ASSURE YOUR CREDITS ARE TRANSFERABLE
Make sure you sign up for a transfer program at your 2-year college. These programs will include the same kinds of courses that you'd take in your first 2 years at the University of Maryland. The program aims to help you succeed at making the transition. Meet with your college adviser when selecting classes every semester to assure every credit you earn at your 2-year college will transfer to your 4-year university.
KEEP YOUR GPA UP
If you are committed to transferring to a university after community college, it is necessary to maintain a high-grade point average (GPA). Just because your transferring from community college, that doesn’t make the admission process any less competitive. The University of Maryland will still consider your grades very important criteria for admission, especially for community college students who are transferring, so you must work hard to keep your GPA up.
I hope this was helpful Jolyssa
CHANCE TO IMPROVE YOUR GPA
Your high school GPA remains static after graduation. When you attend community college, you start with a clean slate, and your community college GPA is calculated based on your coursework there. The admissions committees at the University of Maryland will consider both your high school and community college GPAs, but they will pay close attention to your community college performance, as it reflects your most recent academic abilities.
MEET WITH YOUR COMMUNITY COLLEGE ACADEMIC ADVISOR TO SET GPA GOAL
By proactively engaging with your academic advisor, you can develop a comprehensive plan to set and achieve your GPA goals, ultimately leading to greater academic success and a more fulfilling community college experience. By taking a proactive approach and partnering with your community college advisor, it is possible to set effective GPA goals, develop a strategic plan, and increase chances of academic success.
ASSURE YOUR CREDITS ARE TRANSFERABLE
Make sure you sign up for a transfer program at your 2-year college. These programs will include the same kinds of courses that you'd take in your first 2 years at the University of Maryland. The program aims to help you succeed at making the transition. Meet with your college adviser when selecting classes every semester to assure every credit you earn at your 2-year college will transfer to your 4-year university.
KEEP YOUR GPA UP
If you are committed to transferring to a university after community college, it is necessary to maintain a high-grade point average (GPA). Just because your transferring from community college, that doesn’t make the admission process any less competitive. The University of Maryland will still consider your grades very important criteria for admission, especially for community college students who are transferring, so you must work hard to keep your GPA up.
I hope this was helpful Jolyssa
Community colleges are an excellent option. I can speak from personal experience.
Leo McKenzie
Thank You Leo. Many community colleges offer vocational and technical programs that lead directly to careers in fields like healthcare, technology, and trades, often with strong ties to local industries for job placement.
Doc Frick
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Jolyssa !
Congratulations on approaching your Senior year in High School. It's always an exciting time ! Since you will be in your last year of high school, planning for college with a 2.0 - 3.0 GPA, you'd just have to use your Senior year to take some classes and aim for straight A's since you asked how you can improve. Please know that everyone's academic path is different and a famous, expensive college does not always mean that it is the best for every person. Do not worry about what you "think" is "good". Pick a college or a University that will help you with your future career. You can do it. Having the experience in academia and obtaining the Degree is more important than the name of the college.
You'll need to relax during your Senior year and not put too much pressure on yourself. You can attend college. Your first bit of business is to establish what career you will aim for and then you choose a college based on the available programs that would prepare you for that career. Forget about the names and prestige of colleges. You will have to do some research of colleges and deciding about a career and a program that will best meet your professional goals. So that is what you should do now.
There are some colleges in your State that do accept students with lower GPAs. They are Triangle Tech Inc Dubois, Valley Forge Military College, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, Harcum College, Hussian School of Art, Albright College, Pennsylvania College of Technology, Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, Cabrini College, Laurel Technical Institute, Thiel College, and Chestnut Hill College. Think about these options. It may be important in the long run and if you want to start college right away and not have to wait around to get accepted at a famous named college. Take orientations and tours of as many of these colleges as you can. Just because you have a lower GPA in High School doesn't mean you can't come out of college with a high GPA.
The University of Maryland's last GPA that they accepted into the college is 4.45. Their acceptance rate is between 38% - 45% and it fluctuates. Did you take your SAT exam last year ? They also look for high scores on the SAT, strong, consistent extracurriculars, essays and how hard, advanced and demanding your courses were in High School. It's perfectly fine to not meet the requirements for every college, but think about the idea that you would be able to get accepted into a different college much faster if you apply to University of Maryland in addition to other colleges. U of M does not have any special programs serving low GPA students. I know how you feel. I wanted to go to UCLA all my life but financially it was out of reach and I was young, had very limited life experience, new in CA and had to choose a college where I ended up living. It turned out to be wonderful !
So, if you didn't take the SAT last year, you can take it this year because most all East Coast Colleges require your SAT Score for admission, even community colleges. Have a good time in your senior high school year - make memories, join clubs and participate in events and activities for enjoyment. Decide what your career will be and then choose the Major that will prepare you for it. Go to orientations and tours of all the colleges you can. You will start knowing that your desire to attend college can reach far beyond being set on just one college.
I hope this helps. Best wishes in your senior year. College is waiting for you !
Congratulations on approaching your Senior year in High School. It's always an exciting time ! Since you will be in your last year of high school, planning for college with a 2.0 - 3.0 GPA, you'd just have to use your Senior year to take some classes and aim for straight A's since you asked how you can improve. Please know that everyone's academic path is different and a famous, expensive college does not always mean that it is the best for every person. Do not worry about what you "think" is "good". Pick a college or a University that will help you with your future career. You can do it. Having the experience in academia and obtaining the Degree is more important than the name of the college.
You'll need to relax during your Senior year and not put too much pressure on yourself. You can attend college. Your first bit of business is to establish what career you will aim for and then you choose a college based on the available programs that would prepare you for that career. Forget about the names and prestige of colleges. You will have to do some research of colleges and deciding about a career and a program that will best meet your professional goals. So that is what you should do now.
There are some colleges in your State that do accept students with lower GPAs. They are Triangle Tech Inc Dubois, Valley Forge Military College, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, Harcum College, Hussian School of Art, Albright College, Pennsylvania College of Technology, Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, Cabrini College, Laurel Technical Institute, Thiel College, and Chestnut Hill College. Think about these options. It may be important in the long run and if you want to start college right away and not have to wait around to get accepted at a famous named college. Take orientations and tours of as many of these colleges as you can. Just because you have a lower GPA in High School doesn't mean you can't come out of college with a high GPA.
The University of Maryland's last GPA that they accepted into the college is 4.45. Their acceptance rate is between 38% - 45% and it fluctuates. Did you take your SAT exam last year ? They also look for high scores on the SAT, strong, consistent extracurriculars, essays and how hard, advanced and demanding your courses were in High School. It's perfectly fine to not meet the requirements for every college, but think about the idea that you would be able to get accepted into a different college much faster if you apply to University of Maryland in addition to other colleges. U of M does not have any special programs serving low GPA students. I know how you feel. I wanted to go to UCLA all my life but financially it was out of reach and I was young, had very limited life experience, new in CA and had to choose a college where I ended up living. It turned out to be wonderful !
So, if you didn't take the SAT last year, you can take it this year because most all East Coast Colleges require your SAT Score for admission, even community colleges. Have a good time in your senior high school year - make memories, join clubs and participate in events and activities for enjoyment. Decide what your career will be and then choose the Major that will prepare you for it. Go to orientations and tours of all the colleges you can. You will start knowing that your desire to attend college can reach far beyond being set on just one college.
I hope this helps. Best wishes in your senior year. College is waiting for you !
Maria Villalobos
Customer service
1
Answer
Galt, California
Updated
Maria’s Answer
Congratulations on how far you've come!
I found in my journey; community college was not only a great starting point but also a financially smart decision.
First step to ensuring a successful journey was to make an appointment and sit down with a consoler, gave them a realist idea of my schedule and goals to create a 2-year plan which not only helped me finish my GED but also combined classes that counted towards my business major. Starting at a CC allowed for a lot of maturing and personal growth along the way as well.
I found in my journey; community college was not only a great starting point but also a financially smart decision.
First step to ensuring a successful journey was to make an appointment and sit down with a consoler, gave them a realist idea of my schedule and goals to create a 2-year plan which not only helped me finish my GED but also combined classes that counted towards my business major. Starting at a CC allowed for a lot of maturing and personal growth along the way as well.
Camille Nhep
Sr. Talent Advisor
2
Answers
Long Beach, California
Updated
Camille’s Answer
Hello Jolyssa, I can relate to your situation. I wasn't the brightest crayon in the box -- didn't graduate with any honors but did maintain and graduate with an average GPA. As much as I didn't want to, I enrolled in my local community college and much to my surprise was able to boost my GPA in my general courses and later on had the opportunity of furthering my education in Business Management at a Business University. Here I am now with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management, in my dream job at my dream company, and I don't regret the steps I took to get me here even if it wasn't something I initially planned. You'll get there -- keep motivated and don't be afraid to take a few other steps to make it happen -- the reward will be much more fulfilling!
Cortina Clarkson, MBA
Business Operations Manager
10
Answers
Knightdale, North Carolina
Updated
Cortina’s Answer
Great day to you Jolyssa!
Thank you for the opportunity to assist. Your grades and GPA are definitely important and the good thing is you still have time to improve them. There are summer school opportunites which will help to raise your GPA. You could always attend a Junior/Community College for the first year which not only saves money but also raises your grades in efforts of getting into the University of Maryland. You could take your basic prerequisites but do make sure they are transferable. I would still apply to University of Maryland as well as network with someone from the school's department which may be able to guide you on routes to take to get in.
In regards to your statement about not being "emotionally smart," I beg to differ. You should a great deal of intelligence by logging in here for advice. I'm proud of you for using the resources availble to make a sound decision. Your GPA doesn't define your potential—what matters most is your determination to grow and your willingness to work hard from here forward. There are many paths to college and success, and with focus, support, and persistence, you can get there. You are on the right path!
Thank you for the opportunity to assist. Your grades and GPA are definitely important and the good thing is you still have time to improve them. There are summer school opportunites which will help to raise your GPA. You could always attend a Junior/Community College for the first year which not only saves money but also raises your grades in efforts of getting into the University of Maryland. You could take your basic prerequisites but do make sure they are transferable. I would still apply to University of Maryland as well as network with someone from the school's department which may be able to guide you on routes to take to get in.
In regards to your statement about not being "emotionally smart," I beg to differ. You should a great deal of intelligence by logging in here for advice. I'm proud of you for using the resources availble to make a sound decision. Your GPA doesn't define your potential—what matters most is your determination to grow and your willingness to work hard from here forward. There are many paths to college and success, and with focus, support, and persistence, you can get there. You are on the right path!
Rebekah (Bex) Griffin
content writer, strategist, copywriter, SEO specialist
3
Answers
Malvern, Pennsylvania
Updated
Rebekah (Bex)’s Answer
Don't let grades get you down or be hard on yourself! I had bad grades in high school and went on to have a successful college career once I was in an environment where I could better learn in a way that works for me- that is probably all that needs adjusting. Also- good grades does not equal smart! (trust me- i have seen some things! ) I have been in digital marketing for 13 years and I can tell you that creativity, strategy, and ingenuity and listening are the biggest skills, along with being able to put information together in a way that makes sense for your clients campaigns.
I also do not think you need to go to college for marketing. I was an english and psychology major. I started marketing on my own and took a few courses and got started. You could save yourself so much money like this, and i think college for this field is not worth it. Working with other marketers (apprenticing or interning) and take some courses online (look at coursera, and google has great free marketing certifications. ) decide what area of marketing you like and focus on that. And remember our field is changing so fast (AI is taking over many positions right now) college time may slow you down- stay on top of trends and look at the job market - and honestly, be prepared to maybe switch to something else. it is ROUGH out here in this field right now to land a job- especially entry level.
I don't say this to discourage you, but just have your eyes open. Best of luck- you'll find something that really works for you!
I also do not think you need to go to college for marketing. I was an english and psychology major. I started marketing on my own and took a few courses and got started. You could save yourself so much money like this, and i think college for this field is not worth it. Working with other marketers (apprenticing or interning) and take some courses online (look at coursera, and google has great free marketing certifications. ) decide what area of marketing you like and focus on that. And remember our field is changing so fast (AI is taking over many positions right now) college time may slow you down- stay on top of trends and look at the job market - and honestly, be prepared to maybe switch to something else. it is ROUGH out here in this field right now to land a job- especially entry level.
I don't say this to discourage you, but just have your eyes open. Best of luck- you'll find something that really works for you!
Tony S. Saluja
Director, National Business Sales in Telecommunications
3
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Tony S.’s Answer
Hi Jolyssa,
Your GPA is very important, but admissions teams often want to see more than just good grades. To make your application stand out, highlight your community involvement and any leadership roles you had in social clubs etc. If you don't currently have anything to highlight, try to get involved in some meaningful extra-curricular activities.
Good luck!
Your GPA is very important, but admissions teams often want to see more than just good grades. To make your application stand out, highlight your community involvement and any leadership roles you had in social clubs etc. If you don't currently have anything to highlight, try to get involved in some meaningful extra-curricular activities.
Good luck!
Jo Schock
Business Development
2
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jo’s Answer
Hi Jolyssa! It's great that you're interested in business marketing. Even if your GPA is between 2.0 and 3.0, you still have good options. A strong SAT score can really help balance things out.
Starting at a community college like HACC–York is a smart choice. You can improve your GPA, complete core classes, and earn an Associate's degree in Business or Business Administration. From there, you can transfer to excellent schools like the University of Maryland or local options such as York College of Pennsylvania and Susquehanna University, which have strong marketing programs. Focus on gaining experience, building your network, and making the most of your degree, as these are more important than the school's name. Good luck!
Starting at a community college like HACC–York is a smart choice. You can improve your GPA, complete core classes, and earn an Associate's degree in Business or Business Administration. From there, you can transfer to excellent schools like the University of Maryland or local options such as York College of Pennsylvania and Susquehanna University, which have strong marketing programs. Focus on gaining experience, building your network, and making the most of your degree, as these are more important than the school's name. Good luck!
Paul Marcel-Rene
Property Manager
20
Answers
Akron, Ohio
Updated
Paul’s Answer
First, give yourself credit—you have a goal, and that already puts you ahead. Your GPA doesn’t define your potential, and there are clear, practical steps you can take to reach your dream of studying business marketing. One smart path is to start at a local community college. This gives you the chance to prove yourself with strong college-level grades, build confidence, and then transfer into a four-year program—possibly even the University of Maryland. Many universities actively accept community college transfers who show improvement and academic commitment.
Another option is to apply directly to an accredited online university with strong business programs and more accessible admissions, such as the University of the Cumberlands. Their online marketing degree is affordable, flexible, and well-respected, and it gives you the chance to study while working or exploring internships.
Most importantly, don’t doubt your intelligence. Emotional intelligence, work ethic, and willingness to grow matter more in the long run than a GPA. Focus on progress, not perfection. Keep your goal in sight, and take the path that builds your momentum. You’ve got time, options, and the power to make this dream real.
Another option is to apply directly to an accredited online university with strong business programs and more accessible admissions, such as the University of the Cumberlands. Their online marketing degree is affordable, flexible, and well-respected, and it gives you the chance to study while working or exploring internships.
Most importantly, don’t doubt your intelligence. Emotional intelligence, work ethic, and willingness to grow matter more in the long run than a GPA. Focus on progress, not perfection. Keep your goal in sight, and take the path that builds your momentum. You’ve got time, options, and the power to make this dream real.
Brandon Smith
Talent Advisor
2
Answers
Benicia, California
Updated
Brandon’s Answer
Community college is a fantastic way to boost your GPA. It gives you a chance to explore various business and marketing fields to see if they fit you well. Plus, it's much more affordable, allowing you to explore different subjects, even beyond business. Stay positive—many people find high school challenging but then excel in community college and later in four-year universities.
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Jolyssa! Yes, very relevant discussion. How do we raise Grade Point Averages? I am talking GPA > 4, serious business indeed. That allows us to gain acceptance to the college we want. Currently only 3% of Harvard applicants are accepted! We want an institution of good academic standing, that will allow us to procure employment of the highest standard. The qualities of our human brain determine what sort of GPA we end up with. Fortunately, these qualities are responsive to nutritional manipulation. A brain well-nourished performs very well.
GOD BLESS!
GOD BLESS!
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
835
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I wasn’t the best student through high school. I found that attending a community college allowed my to focus on my studies and with getting good grades and improving my educational resume, I was able to get into a 4 year school.
Don’t feel like you aren’t good enough. There are always paths to get to where you want to be, even if they aren’t “traditional”.
Don’t feel like you aren’t good enough. There are always paths to get to where you want to be, even if they aren’t “traditional”.
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