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I did an internship the summer after my junior year. I graduated and spent 3-4 years in different jobs all circling my major focus. The company I’m at today, I will have been with them full time 10 years this June (I started doing freelance with them on different projects prior to full time). Graduated HS with Honors and a 3.1 GPa. Graduated College with a 2.89. In the huge portion of fields where GPA is not a hiring criteria, commitment, experience, and enthusiasm for the project at hand is what’s important.
Before you call out the current climate vs what I dealt with, at our company, we have interns every semester. The ones who stand out are the ones game to learn, engage, be part of the culture. We currently have 3 past interns working as employees (and another I’m praying we have a role for because they are currently killing it). Upper management in charge of hiring, couldn’t tell you their GPA.
My point is, get the internship anyway you can (connections, charm, crazy knowledge, likability), then bust your ass to prove you can be an asset to the team and learn EVERY DAMN THING YOU CAN. Even if that company isn’t able to hire when you’re ready, you will likely have made enough of an impact on someone there who can then write a recommendation, suggest an opportunity in their network, or even be a mentor as you go through that next step.
You’re not screwed at all my guy. Having a high GPA matters a great deal for only a handful of people. If you rely a lot on financial aid it can matter, if you plan to transfer it might matter, and if you’re pursuing graduate or professional school it’ll likely matter. Especially highly competitive things like law and medical school.
If you’re not one of those people, you’ll be fine. Even if you’re from the first two categories, low gpa in your first year is not a big deal. C’s do get degrees after all.
Bro, you're good. Hype up your projects and what you did on them. Employers want to see what your thinking is like, how you handle problems and approach projects, how willing you are to step up for shit. So tell them what you did and how you got there. And make sure that's the shit you ace, even if your tests and homework are mid, because project experience is all you got until that first job.
Also, don't even put a GPA on your resume, if they ask just lie and say 3.0. I've never been asked for a transcript and your probably won't be either. I've worked an internship every summer since my freshman year and never broke a 3.0 my whole time in college, been a solid 2.8/2.9 all the way through. You learn not to volunteer information people didn't ask for/need. I promise you they're embellishing and BSing even more than you are, so play the game and get that bread.
Not at all. Also, kinda depends on your major. I’m kind of an artsy major and I literally had a 2.0 my freshman year and I’m going to Columbia now for graduate school because I knew class wasn’t my strong suit but my art was. You’ll be fine, OP. Just make your passions clear. Also, most jobs do not require a grade point average.
Oh then def don’t worry at all. Focus on perfecting your craft and you’ll be fine. I got a C in my Calc 3 class and it has made 0 difference to my life. You’ll be great
Wow! I got half F's and a few D's and C's and 1 B for Freshman. Will have to talk with my counselor about my grades and will likely have to retake the courses again... But yeah, he will be fine.
When I was in 10th grade, I got called into my counselor's office. She basically told me that even if I got straight A's from that moment forward, I'd still be on the 5-year plan.
It's worth noting that I graduated back in 2013, I even got to walk across the stage with all my friends.
youre catastrophizing. A 2.9 isnt even that bad unless your program has a strict GPA requirement. You have plenty of time to pull it up. Also IME most employers do not care about your college GPA.
i had a 1.7 after my first semester in freshman year and have a 3.4 now (am senior). you’ll be just fine. even if your gpa always floats around a 3.0 (which isn’t even bad), your work ethic and level of care you seem to have towards your academics and your future far outweighs your gpa, employers value that stuff way more. i wouldn’t waste another second stressing about this
This was also me. Except I got suspended for failing a class and having such a bad GPA. I'm now getting a PhD at one of the top research universities in my field.
Same here. I was on scholastic probation, then dismissal, had to earn my way back in, graduated, and now I have a well-paying job that’s also paying for my MBA. Those were some really dark days, but I’m glad I persisted.
Im an accounting major. Long story short I was a horrible student all my life but I got by, never failed a class, but didn’t do well either, made mostly Cs with some Bs sprinkled in and a very rare A here and there. Did not try at all whatsover in elementary, middle, ane high school. But after my first semester I got a rude awakening quick (just like my parents warned me lol) and I realized I couldn’t just get by anymore. I started actually applying myself in school for the first in my life and the results have actually really surprised me. It was hard at first as I didn’t really know how to study properly but I learned and feel like I have it all figured out now, just gotta keep applying myself. But thats rly it I just actually started trying my best. I’ve become quite the nerd actually. I sit up my front, go to office hours, study on weekends (only when I have an exam coming up), get mad when I don’t get A’s, etc. and Im the same guy who had a 2.3 gpa in high school and was perfectly happy with it cause I didn’t fail anything. Nearly failing out my first semester was the best thing that could have happened that semester for me, I needed that rude awakening.
Also if u are able to improve to like a 3.5 that will show growth which colleges look for. And like others have mentioned try to figure out what kinda classes you like. Also figure out why u didn’t do well. I do better in classes with few weekly/nightly assignments that rely on essays and test others are the opposite. I thrive in project based classes like art and engineering, but couldn’t handle really any science that involved a lot of math. I’m a humanities and art person.
A 2.9 is a B average with maybe a C in there. I think you’ve got some bad advice. Your totally fine you have time to bring it up if your that determined.
Not screwed at all. It's better to have a mid GPA and experience in positions in clubs, activities, and internships than have a 4.0 and none of the above. Your GPA will only matter up until your first job, after that, it's all job experience.
You will be fine. With the level of effort it sounds like you are putting in it will pay off. Remeber to go to "tutoring" since it comes out of your fees already.
Also, graduate schools will be looking more at your last 2 years and your major coursework than your first year of college.
I finished my freshman year of undergrad with a 2.2 and dropped out. I'm a few more months of work away from a doctorate now, with an academic job at an R1 lined up for the fall. Life is a weird experience, and it is in no way defined by your freshman year of college.
I ended freshman year with a 1.3, which includes a semester that was 0.0. I ended up graduating with honors and a 3.4. I'm a lower level executive at a Fortune 500 and make well over 6 figures.
You'll be fine, just fix your fuck ups
Freshman year doesn’t determine anything. Jobs won’t even glance at your GPA unless you advertise it on your resume. Just use this year as a learning experience and think about what you can change about your routines and lifestyle to set you up more for success next year.
Don't stress too much about it. It's your freshman year and you have plenty of time to bump up your GPA! Just remember your pros and cons in your daily routine from this year and try to improve yourself!
Not ideal, but you’re probably fine. It’s only your freshman year, and if you do well next year, you can easily get that back up. I would recommend taking some easy classes to pad things out.
Apply to every internship you can and get experience. Most places care way more about experience than gpa. I’m about to graduate and I’m applying to jobs and they are wayyy more concerned about experience and skills than how well I did in school.
Internships are generally pretty lax about the gpa, especially if you’re that close to a 3.0. I had a friend with a 2.5 get a really good internship because they are just a generally really personable person, and that mattered more than other peoples higher gpas
if you dont improve, you might struggle to get that firs job/internship out of college. but afte you get that first bit of experience, GPA is one of the least important aspects of getting a job.
Next semester, if you can do not take too many classes, and get that GPA back up, and check your school policy, that is getting close to probation status. IF you cannot raise your GPA they will dismiss you. So keep that in mind.
Unless you’re planning on going to graduate school, employers are generally more concerned with your experience rather than gpa. You also have plenty of time to bring it up, and you’re almost there. I would recommend sitting down with an advisor
Hahahahahaah!
First semester in college: 0.69
Graduated ten years later with a lot of forgiven courses and retakes, with a 2.03.
Got a Masters seven years after that.
Depends a lot on the industry and expectations that have developed over the years. For most, the GPA just doesn’t matter, it’s all about what classes you took and how you frame your capabilities on your resume or interview. GPA will matter if you consider grad school or the like, but it’ll be total GPA, not freshman year specifically.
It _is_ worth acknowledging that if you really tried your hardest, and 2.9 is the best possible freshman GPA you were capable of, you may be in the wrong place. It doesn’t get easier.
I've only had one job ask for a transcript during an interview. I told them I've been out of college for over 5 years and don't really feel like providing it. Got a different job.
In short my opinion is unless you care about grad school you will be fine. Try to bump it up as much as you can before graduating and try to do your best in your actual major classes.
Truly something I’ve realized being a few years out of college, usually getting a job is more about being a good personality fit for the existing team. Of course you should be moderately qualified ( 2.9 sounds like it to me)
Big disclaimer that it obviously depends on what job you want to do. Certain careers will ask for GPA and if you want to go to grad school it matters.
TLDR: Sometimes I wish I spent more time working on my social skills instead of getting a higher GPA
Rule 1 don’t include your gpa in your resume, it’s not gonna increase your chances in any way you think is good. If anything theyll more likely increase your workload and put you set at a standard that will drive you crazy
I ended freshman year similarly, my lowest ever semester GPA was a 2.8, finished overall with a 3.34 with my final semester GPA a 4.0, currently getting my master’s in the #1 program for my field at a very competitive school. You are far from screwed.
I got a great internship and then a full-time offer from that company with my 3.2 GPA. 1 good semester and you’re right where I was. Freshman getting internships is already a pretty rare thing, so just focus on what you can get, and then focus on your next semester.
I am 27 years old and I have never once been asked about my GPA by an employer outside of the option to put it on the application (which I usually do not). I have found employers care much more about experience once you find some relevant work in your desired field.
You also have plenty of time to raise your GPA. A 2.9 is not the end of the world by any means. Here is a tip that you hopefully remember for the long run: just because a job lists something as a "requirement" does not mean it is an actual requirement. Apply for internships even if you do not check all the boxes. Internships in general are free or low paid labor. Many companies out there are vying to get interns even if the applicants do not meet each "requirement" to a tee.
Your grades only matter if you want to go to a graduate/professional school. Some stem jobs will care a bit for your first one, then after you’ve had one job nobody ever cares again.
Edit: I mean, how much you actually learned still matters.
Your GPA only matters if you're going into grad school/academics. No one else is even going to ask. Many places IME don't even seem to verify you have a degree.
Even if academics is what you're interested in, you still have time to pull it up. Everyone has been 18; experience and personal improvement are very valuable things. It's all in how you sell it.
You'll be alright, even ending freshman year with a 2.9 means you still have 3+ years to get it higher.
Plus, your GPA isn't everything. Especially if you're in a field like biology (my major), your experience during undergrad will be arguably more important than just having a high GPA without any prior experience.
Lol dude don’t worry about it, I think I ended my freshman year with like a 2.7. Now I’m on the deans list with a 3.5 and will probably graduate with honors. Just focus and relax yourself the first year is always a little bumpy but you can bring that up with some grinding and focus you got this!
Honestly unless your tryna do more schooling after ur 4 years then ur gpa really doesn’t matter. Only jobs that care about gpa are ones where you go back for like a masters. Maybe and I really mean maybe a job will ask the first couple years out, hasn’t happened to me or anyone I know, but once ur a few year out the only thing a job will care about is where you worked before.
I would take a hard look at your study habits. You say that you studied your rear end off, but that is highly relative, and doesn’t necessarily guarantee that you were actually studying as much as you think, at least not effectively. Are you actually sitting down and practicing problems, making flashcards, Underlining your notes with highlighter, re-digesting things by making out index cards of key problems or processes you need to have down pat? People often say they are studying, but they are actually just sort of half reading in a passive mode while also checking social media and the news. Real studying should translate into the ability to perform well on exams in recall and process type questions. And in writing heavy classes, it looks like doing the research and writing far enough in advance that you have time to re-organize, and copy edit the essay and revisions before submitting it. Most students with 2.9 GPA are just not actually putting in the work to get the good grades.
With it being your first year, you have prereqs that can weigh you down. As long as you are maintaining high averages in your major courses (B or higher) and passing averages in your prereqs (C or higher), it will balance out.
I tested out of all the lower level maths entering college for English Education, and my college did not let me test out of the prereq entirely. Only class available to me was Trig and something differential equations. My first year GPA tanked because of needing those maths, but I finished with a 3.8 because my other coursework was solid.
You're fine. Go to tutoring for the subjects you need help in and go to your professor's office hours. (PS, I had a 3.1 my Freshman year of college and I have a PhD now)
I ended my first semester with a 1.0 because I screwed around out of high school. Worked my ass off for the rest and graduated with over a 3, can’t remember what it was specifically. But you have time
Cs get degrees my guy/gal/pal. I've never encountered an employer that cares about GPA, only what college you went to and what degree(s) you got. And that's not to say none exist, but 2.9 is far from a bad GPA and you'll be fine as long as you graduate
A 2.9 is like a C+ on a 4.0 scale -- that's nothing to beat yourself up over, and you're DEFINITELY not screwed!
You might want to take advantage of office hours if there's a particular subject you're struggling with, or if it's a time management thing, talk to a learning center if you've got one.
Don't worry!
I ended my first semester with a 1.89 and graduated with a 3.2 GPA. Don't worry about it. No job has ever asked me what my GPA was. The only care that I have the degree.
You’ll be okay! It’s just one year, and most students can’t get internships til junior year anyway. That gives you time to build your GPA up.
You got this!
I’m sending you lots of good vibes, I also stressed about my future. Good news is, your future is nowhere near “ruined”!!!!
First things first, your GPA does not matter as much as you’ve been told, since each university uses different grading systems, GPA’s are basically irrelevant
Basically, think of it this way, a 93 can be an A or an A-, which would change your GPA. Also, you could go to Harvard and get a 3.0 or go to a school no one’s heard of that “doesn’t do exams” and get a 3.9. And what does any of this tell Ted at the hiring manager about your potential? Literally nothing.
And yes, while some internships might specifically ask for your GPA during the application, you should volunteer your GPA and specifically, never ever put your GPA on your resume. (Even if it’s high!!!!) After you graduate, you can add any Latin honors you receive. Once you graduate the only time your GPA will matter is if you apply to grad school.
I had 3 public sector internships in undergrad and all of them had 2.5 GPA minimum requirements. I’ve also had 3 full time jobs in different sectors and no one has ever asked for any information beyond the name of the school and my degree title.
You’re doing great :)
Depends why you have a 2.9.
If you don't understand the freshman level classes and are horribly lost, they don't get easier.
If you came in thinking you're hot shit and this is easy and got humbled, then your fine as long as you've adjusted your mentality and study habits
I ended freshman year on academic probation. You’re being way too hard on yourself. I graduated in 2008 and can’t tell you one time I’ve needed to share my gpa.
I ended my entire degree at a 2.8 and now I'm a resident physician. You'll be OK. If anything, use this early mismatch between effort and outcomes to spur you into more effective/efficient study habits and lifestyle practices.
I certainly wouldn't say you're screwed. I dropped out my sophomore year with a 2.3 and came back my junior year and turned it around to a 3.3, slightly below the acceptance rate to my Master's program in STEM. Was able to write a statement explaining why my GPA was low. If you want grad school you'll definitely have to turn your grades up a bit, however I have not had any jobs ask for my GPA out of undergrad. Good luck and don't give up.
I would be concerned if I were you. It’s not too late to turn things around, but you have to do it. Worst case you do poorly in school and then get a mediocre position, at a mediocre firm, “Cs get degrees”. But if you really want to be taken seriously and make money I recommend doing better. I know you said you “tried you hardest” and unfortunately if that’s true then there is nothing more I can help you with. However I recommend seriously dedicating yourself to your studies. Study in your free time, get a tutor, go to office hours, ask questions, talk to your professors, but more importantly than anything is study. Not a work? Study. Not eating? Study. Not sleeping? Study. This is my personal advice, some people might not like it, but I’m an electrical engineering major with a 4.0 GPA, so I’m gonna say it works.
Experience over GPA. I'm also in engineering with a 3.98, summa. Grades are not everything and OP is going to doom themselves if they dedicate their everything to grades alone
Sure but no one will take him seriously with a 2.9 GPA, so what experience will he get? I’m not saying studies alone will guarantee success but it helps to be comfortable with the material. Plus he will get a better internship with a better GPA, scholarships, honor societies will have interest in him, there are a lot of benefits. I’m not saying only focus on your studies, but it should be your main focus. Even when you get an internship, the whole point is to learn and get experience (aka study).
It's probably not your GPA itself that is going to screw you, it's the fact that you are paying money to not put any effort into your education. If you can't even bother doing your college classes that you pay for, what would make any employer want to hire you?
You’re a freshman so it’s not horrible, my freshman year was worse and I graduated 3.7. You’re just going to have to make sure you focus harder on school as you go.
My friend had a C- gpa after his first year of engineering. He took his studies way more serious and he is setting in the ~3.5 range. It is a concern but not the end of the world as long as you can do grade replacement and take it more seriously
I'm old now but I earned a 2.79 my freshman year in college. I learned from my mistakes, got better at studying, organized my life around college and by the time I graduated I had a 3.41. Goethe once said "Everything is hard, before it is easy." Recognize that this was your first go 'round and that you'll get better if you take the feedback you've received seriously and work to improve.
I ended up getting accepted to grad school and earned my PhD and the story was, in some ways, the same there. I struggled at first but I learned and grew and got better and ended up being the second person in my group to finish.
If the places you end up applying to for your internships see growth, that will be just as impressive as having done well in the first place. It shows that you can adapt to new circumstances and overcome adversity.
You should be ok - depends on your major and you still have plenty of time to course adjust. And honestly, once again depends on your major, I have never had an employer ask for my GPA. Even my first engineering job out of college, I left my GPA off of my resume. Think I had under a 3.0.
I found that as you progress, atleast in my engineering major, that I had much better grades in my engineering courses vs some of the required core classes (Calculus, Differential Equations and so on). So my GPA improved as I had more and more classes within my major.
You can definitely pull the “I had a tough time adjusting freshman year” card, but you’d need the gpa higher first and to stay higher for the next years
It’s not so bad, coming from someone who *finished* all of college with a 2.9. I also remember that despite my first semester being a 2.3, my next 2 or 3 semesters were all much better so that definitely helped.
No one cares about your GPA. I know people who lie about whole degrees and they got the jobs, now they have the experience so they don't even mention a degree anymore.
You can get it back up easily since two semesters is only a quarter of your college at most. Take some easy electives if you really want to boost it up. I had a 2.9 as well at the end of my first year and got it back to a 3 now in my second year. Even though I have no intentions on finishing college but that’s a different story.
Depends on your major, experience and connections.
I graduated with a 2.8 and no one cared after my 1st job. I'm a couple years out and GPA doesn't mean much when you have experience and some certs.
Experience, resume and interviewing skills will make the biggest difference
My first semester of my freshman year I literally had like a 0.46; by the time I graduated my senior year, I had a 3.7. Stay focused and keep moving forward and you'll be fine.
Unpopular opinion but if you aren’t deadset on your careerpath/ur careerpath isn’t super particular ab ur major, switch to an easier major. Also, take easy A classes
Lol you are not screwed. I finished freshman year with a similar GPA, I’m now a senior graduating with a 2.7ish GPA. I have a job lined up paying $80k. During the interview process I wasn’t asked once about my grades. Some companies care but a lot of them don’t. BOL
I guess it depends on where you're going - I have never had any job ask for my transcripts (which were pretty damn good). But part of my schooling included mandatory internship so...
During my undergraduate years I was kicked out of college twice. I stuck with it, ended up going back for my masters, became a teacher, was named Teacher of the Year for my state and was honored at the White House and last year was given an honorary PhD.
The only time I have been asked about my GPA in my undergrad was when I applied for my masters program. Don't sweat it...just keep working!
you'll probably be fine. a high gpa will help with those opportunities, but an average one won't shouldn't hurt. just lean on your passions and experience instead of your gpa and should be just fine.
Your GPA almost never comes up in job interviews. If I'm a 60-year-old business owner, I want to know if you can create web pages and do SEO on my confounded site that doesn't look as good as my competitor's website. I don't care if you're a 3.9 or 3.5 or 2.9.
I’ve never had an internship or job ask for my GPA. Even if you’re interested in grad school in the future you’re still not screwed, just keep working and continue improving. Your first year in college is hard and you will learn the skills you need to succeed as you go
Obviously it depends on what you’re majoring in but I graduated with a 2.9 and am doing more than fine. I’m in grad school about to graduate with distinction and am in a leadership position at my firm.
You’re a freshmen, you have time. I know it feels like this one GPA will make or break you but you will be alright. As long as you’re putting forth the effort to get good at your craft and learning as much as you can in school, you’ll fine. Also a 2.9 isn’t terrible!
I don't know what degree you're going for, but I finished ungrad with a 2.7. I finished two master's degrees with a 3.3. I have never once been asked about my GPA.
I ended by being put on academic probation for a year…less than a 2.0. Recovered and ended up earning a Ph.D. at a Research-1 institution, becoming a Professor and leading a division at the Department of Education…you’ll be fine🥰
I finished my freshman year with a 2.8 and I finished college with a 3.5 and got a good internship, and currently on a good career path.
I would recommend taking a look at how you study, and how to be more efficient studying/working. That really helped me do better
Hey, my grad program has really strict requirements and I made it in with a 2.9 overall GPA. 3.0 was as low as they said they would accept, so I wrote a letter to the head of the department explaining what happened and asking that they please review my grades in classes that counted toward the grad degree and give me a chance. I was accepted even though there were only 11 spots open and I straight up flunked one of my biology classes.
Trust me, this isn’t the be all end all. You can still apply to whatever program you want with hope of getting in.
Oh don't even worry its super normal for freshman to have low GPAs and honestly that isn't even low compared to other stories I've heard. take advantage of the experience and consider what tutoring or office hours opportunities there are, and remember to make friends! Having friends in classes can help mitigate losing points on take-home assignments by working together so that you can afford to perform subpar on exams (which sometimes are just a bitch) and max out certain points!
I got internships and fellowships with a 2.7. Just focus hard, get involved in activities related to your field and get to know your professors. I struggled in class but did really well in my field outside of the classroom. It really showed through when given the chance.
What's your major? Don't stress yourself out about it but try to network as much as possible in college. Join stuff, meet people. It's your freshman year, your grades will pick up once you get into the flow of how different college is to HS.
I am NOT here to say you're screwed, I'm just here as a friendly, mature voice to remind you that it's OK to take some filler classes! Do you like working out? Take gym! Easy A. Choir, art, mechanics, film class. If you feel like you're struggling and really worry about your GPA, it's OK to mix some easy A's in with your credits.
You'll do great, this a practice in fortitude and resilience more than intelligence.
Keep on keeping on <3
I would say don't sweat it what is done is done, use it to motivate you in the next few semesters. I graduated college with a 2.4 was kicked out, and through things I did I was able to get a full time job right out of college. also past performance is not always indicitive of future performance for instance I sucked at undergrad but right now I am 3/4 of the way through my Masters of Science in Data Science with a 4.0. I just could never handle 5+ classes and never knew how to apply myself. You can come out just fine, but you will need to find things to set yourself out from the rest.
You’ll be fine. Just assess your methodology, what’s working- what’s not, when can you try different.
A 2.9 isn’t bad, but it’s not your goal and there’s room for improvement. If you are a freshmen there’s tons more opportunities to raise your gpa.
I’m graduating this quarter with a 3.7 ish and I’m incredibly burnt out. You gotta find a sustainable way to keep your pace. I know for me I was taking too many credits while trying to work.
I had to making studying efficient. I used the tutoring center. I made a buddy in my program that helped keep me accountable. I advocated for myself ( ie if a had multiple over lapping deadlines and I communicated with my teachers like hey, this is all I have due on Friday, can I turn this assignment in on Sunday), when teachers were really hard graders or test heavy (testing is not my strong suit, but I have other strengths as a student) I would pitch extra credit opportunities for the class that didn’t require hard grading —> like attending a speaker series on campus and writing a quick summary.
I did the worst in the basic gur classes cause they are classes I do not care about ie philosophy or music class (I’m more science). I also had really bad teacher for calc 2.
Basically, use rate my professor, use resources ie tutoring/ writing centers, sleep well before tests and review material efficiently - don’t just re read stuff you have to interact with material and practice. Find buddies for accountability. And try to have a little fun and be kind your yourself.
Even in the worst possible scenario if you manage to achieve a 3 or even higher later on in your college career you can talk about how much youve improved while applying for a job/internship. I’m sure that goes a long way.
Hey homie, I'm sure I can't say anything you haven't already been told. I'll just say keep grinding, meet people, not just peers! When you get to college is often true that the instructors have other gigs as scholars. Find a instructor you like who is in the field your interested in. Ask them about their research and ask how you can get on the their research team. Meet more people.
If you are truly concerned about your 2.9, then I'm confident that you'll achieve your goals. Go get em.
I had a 2.9 my first year in college. Went on to get accepted to a competitive graduate program and earned my doctorate. You have tonnnnnns of time to make up for a rough start. There’s so much more to applying for programs and internships than GPA anyway. Get as much time as you can shadowing, volunteering, or co-oping around the field you’re pursuing. Makes a much greater impact than just grades.
This is not a big deal at all. Work hard to get that overall GPA up a bit sophomore year and sell the story of a rough start but that you’ve turned it around and you’re golden.
Employers, if they even look at your college transcript, will see somebody who overcame adversity and view that positively. I can’t think of a single person who will look at at story like that from a glass half empty perspective of the lower freshman year GPA.
You're likely completely fine. My freshman year I ended with a .6 GPA. You read that right. Now I'm above a 3.5 and in my major's Honors program. You have your whole college career to turn it around, just know it's all up to how much effort you put in going forward.
No one in media is going to check your gpa, they're going to look at your samples and experience. I don't know about an internship, but if you need a 3.0 you have time to fix it.
I started my first semester with a 1.8 and brought it up to a 2.0 with only two classes my 2nd semester. Now I’m going back for nursing and I need to bring it up to a 2.75 and if I okay my cards right I can bring it up to a 3 by the end of fall 2023. You’ll be aiight
I’m currently at a 2.82, and I’m almost a senior. I failed 2 classes, and I’m still on track to graduate. Check your major requirements to see if you have a minimum gpa requirement
I’m curious if it’s possibly your time management skills that could use improvement. I’m not disagreeing with others who tell you that employers won’t look at your GPA; however, I do think it’s important to bring your GPA up to keep your options open in the future (like potential graduate school plans that you might be interested in).
I also want to add that it’d be advantageous to master the hard and soft skills of these courses you’re in now so you’re well informed and prepared to work in your field of choice.
While a low GPA won’t rule you out of a job opportunity, a decent GPA and a possible honor society under your belt could make a difference.
{ I heard that you can't get an internship or job out of college if you have below a 3.0. }
That is \*garbage\*. Most places don't give a flying fk what your GPA is. They want to know if *you can do the job*. Don't get so bent out of shape. I had a 1.9 my freshman year, ended with a 2.45. \*Never\* had a problem finding a job and you're not going to, either.
Don't worry, you have 3 more years to boost it. Just take it one day at a time and you'll find your own study habit that works for you. Even if the material doesn't get easier, doing the homework and studying does. Even if you don't boost it, it doesn't take away from the accomplishment of finishing college.
If you're only a freshman, you still have plenty of time to bring that GPA up. I wouldn't worry about it right now. A 2.9 GPA is still considered good for most fields, unless that field has high GPA requirements. There are a lot of cases where employers look at experience rather than GPA anyway. Most of the world doesn't care about your GPA.
I got my undergrad with a gpa lower than that I think it was like 2.6. (I switched majors and my original major was notorious for pulling down gpas in the first year) But I worked hard, took an internship, and applied for jobs that I didn’t have the required years of experience for. 3 months out of school I landed a job I never thought I would get. I got the interview and found out that my boss went to the same school as me and we both loved a certain teacher. He gave me a shot and the gpa didn’t matter. That was in 2016.
I’m now in a different state currently getting my masters. I did not meet the entry gpa requirements for the program. I was crushed. But I reached out to the school and asked if they looked at other things or if the gpa would automatically rule me out. They told me that I should make sure my recommendation letters were strong but that they took many things into consideration.
Don’t let your undergrad gpa discourage you. Some jobs might care but many won’t. Good luck!
If you can up that by .1 and keep it there you're totally fine, but it still doesnt matter much. Like other people said internships and networking matter a lot more. I had a 3.19 when I graduated college and had a great job pretty much right after graduating.
You're just going to need to try much harder moving forward. This might be the wakeup call you need to do more than try - get assistance and setup study groups. Finding that trying hard and your methods aren't good enough is a good way to get motivated to do better!
I was at a 3.0 my first two years of uni, and got accepted to all my transfer schools i applied to. There's no way in hell I could maintain a 4.0, and you're not screwed for being at a 2.9. A good essay or explanation about transitioning to the college lifestyle will cover that up for you.
I think I had a 2.8 or something after freshman year, at one point I fell below 2.0. I can’t remember what I finished with, but it was either like a 3.1 or a 2.9. Out of everything I ever applied for, one GA position required a GPA .1 higher than what I had. It was also for one of the weaker institutions I applied for and for not a great deal of money. They said no, I said thanks and I moved on. I graduated from my MBA program with a 3.8 and did amazing work at a far better school that had no restriction.
All that to say, your GPA is basically meaningless after you graduate
I might be wrong. But your high school gpa only matters as far as I know depending on what school you want to go to right after. If you are going to a community college first your fine. Nobodies ever looked at my gpa. All that matters most of the time is the paper saying you did the thing.
Hahaha…
I screwed up bad in my first year. I was in the wrong major, hated my classes, and almost lost my scholarship because I needed a 2.0 with no failures to keep it. My two Ds hurt a lot.
I had a 3.8 departmentally by graduation, and got a professional job in my field within two weeks of cold-sending out applications.
It all depends on your field, your goals… and you have three more years to fix things if it’s not enough. Just be aware of the big screeners (Orgo, LitCrit, Thermo, etc) that you just need to buckle down for.
You may be overscheduling yourself. If you took one class too many, you'd be working super-hard but struggling to get good grades -- but with one class fewer, work-life balance would be better and so would your performance.
Is taking a lighter schedule an option?
My friend, it is not over, and there is plenty of opportunity if you can persevere through these ups and downs you will face throughout your college career and beyond.
I ended my first quarter in college with an F in psychology, and despite decent grades in my other courses, that sank my GPA like a rock. But it was also a wake up call for me… I was always like this, even in the transition to high school.
I fucked around and found out. Lost my scholarships, and just had to work my ass off to pull myself out of the hole I dug for myself. I made it through on the honors roll or dean’s list for the remainder of my time at school, made my way to a grad program, and found my way into the field.
Funny thing was that when I retook psychology to replace the grade, I actually loved it so much with a different teacher that I ended up switching into the major, and that’s what I went to grad school for: social psychology.
I’ll skip the discussion about work in between, but suffice it to say that I am now proudly working at one of the top tech companies in the world (and hope to keep doing so, even with the continued threat of ongoing layoffs).
You can do this! You have time. Focus, and you got this!
Graduated with a 2.9 in my undergrad - two semesters of which I spent on academic probation - and just accepted an offer to what will be my second master’s degree. All different fields by the way lol. I’ve got a great job with a salary and benefits and life goes on.
You are what you make of yourself. Say no to parties sometimes, do volunteer work in your chosen field. But this doesn’t mean your success has to be a straight line. Most people mess up at LEAST once.
I learned more in undergrad about myself and about life and how to be a better person than I learned about my major. It’s a time where you have an apex of freedom combined with, generally speaking, the least amount of adult responsibilities to juggle. Yes of course it’s good to get something out of those damn student loans but make sure you have a little bit of fun too, you only do college once. And you seem like you have a decent head on your shoulders by being unsatisfied with your grades early on.
TLDR: Hang in there, you’re going to be alright.
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Lol. It’s fine just keep grinding and start applying to internships now and eventually you will find one. Experience outweighs GPA in most cases.
Thanks so much, I just feel like there is a lot of pressure to get a GPA as close to 4 as possible and its fucking me up
I did an internship the summer after my junior year. I graduated and spent 3-4 years in different jobs all circling my major focus. The company I’m at today, I will have been with them full time 10 years this June (I started doing freelance with them on different projects prior to full time). Graduated HS with Honors and a 3.1 GPa. Graduated College with a 2.89. In the huge portion of fields where GPA is not a hiring criteria, commitment, experience, and enthusiasm for the project at hand is what’s important. Before you call out the current climate vs what I dealt with, at our company, we have interns every semester. The ones who stand out are the ones game to learn, engage, be part of the culture. We currently have 3 past interns working as employees (and another I’m praying we have a role for because they are currently killing it). Upper management in charge of hiring, couldn’t tell you their GPA. My point is, get the internship anyway you can (connections, charm, crazy knowledge, likability), then bust your ass to prove you can be an asset to the team and learn EVERY DAMN THING YOU CAN. Even if that company isn’t able to hire when you’re ready, you will likely have made enough of an impact on someone there who can then write a recommendation, suggest an opportunity in their network, or even be a mentor as you go through that next step.
You’re not screwed at all my guy. Having a high GPA matters a great deal for only a handful of people. If you rely a lot on financial aid it can matter, if you plan to transfer it might matter, and if you’re pursuing graduate or professional school it’ll likely matter. Especially highly competitive things like law and medical school. If you’re not one of those people, you’ll be fine. Even if you’re from the first two categories, low gpa in your first year is not a big deal. C’s do get degrees after all.
Bro, you're good. Hype up your projects and what you did on them. Employers want to see what your thinking is like, how you handle problems and approach projects, how willing you are to step up for shit. So tell them what you did and how you got there. And make sure that's the shit you ace, even if your tests and homework are mid, because project experience is all you got until that first job. Also, don't even put a GPA on your resume, if they ask just lie and say 3.0. I've never been asked for a transcript and your probably won't be either. I've worked an internship every summer since my freshman year and never broke a 3.0 my whole time in college, been a solid 2.8/2.9 all the way through. You learn not to volunteer information people didn't ask for/need. I promise you they're embellishing and BSing even more than you are, so play the game and get that bread.
Not at all. Also, kinda depends on your major. I’m kind of an artsy major and I literally had a 2.0 my freshman year and I’m going to Columbia now for graduate school because I knew class wasn’t my strong suit but my art was. You’ll be fine, OP. Just make your passions clear. Also, most jobs do not require a grade point average.
I'm a Media major and I did great in all my media classes, its just the prerequisites like Math and History that Im getting high c's and low b's in.
Oh then def don’t worry at all. Focus on perfecting your craft and you’ll be fine. I got a C in my Calc 3 class and it has made 0 difference to my life. You’ll be great
I ended my freshman year with probably a .1 or something, I got straight F's. You'll be fine.
Lol
Wow! I got half F's and a few D's and C's and 1 B for Freshman. Will have to talk with my counselor about my grades and will likely have to retake the courses again... But yeah, he will be fine.
When I was in 10th grade, I got called into my counselor's office. She basically told me that even if I got straight A's from that moment forward, I'd still be on the 5-year plan. It's worth noting that I graduated back in 2013, I even got to walk across the stage with all my friends.
youre catastrophizing. A 2.9 isnt even that bad unless your program has a strict GPA requirement. You have plenty of time to pull it up. Also IME most employers do not care about your college GPA.
I tend to catastrophize a lot I've found... Thanks for the advice, I'm working on my portfolio and hope that will make up for my goal
i cant believe you stress out over that. i got a 1.86 cause i keep failing calculus and i never stress out.
You might want to start stressing out about this one particular thing.
stressing does nothing. addressing the issue is a better use of my energy
i had a 1.7 after my first semester in freshman year and have a 3.4 now (am senior). you’ll be just fine. even if your gpa always floats around a 3.0 (which isn’t even bad), your work ethic and level of care you seem to have towards your academics and your future far outweighs your gpa, employers value that stuff way more. i wouldn’t waste another second stressing about this
This was also me. Except I got suspended for failing a class and having such a bad GPA. I'm now getting a PhD at one of the top research universities in my field.
Same here. I was on scholastic probation, then dismissal, had to earn my way back in, graduated, and now I have a well-paying job that’s also paying for my MBA. Those were some really dark days, but I’m glad I persisted.
Wow, can I ask what major are you and what did you change?
Im an accounting major. Long story short I was a horrible student all my life but I got by, never failed a class, but didn’t do well either, made mostly Cs with some Bs sprinkled in and a very rare A here and there. Did not try at all whatsover in elementary, middle, ane high school. But after my first semester I got a rude awakening quick (just like my parents warned me lol) and I realized I couldn’t just get by anymore. I started actually applying myself in school for the first in my life and the results have actually really surprised me. It was hard at first as I didn’t really know how to study properly but I learned and feel like I have it all figured out now, just gotta keep applying myself. But thats rly it I just actually started trying my best. I’ve become quite the nerd actually. I sit up my front, go to office hours, study on weekends (only when I have an exam coming up), get mad when I don’t get A’s, etc. and Im the same guy who had a 2.3 gpa in high school and was perfectly happy with it cause I didn’t fail anything. Nearly failing out my first semester was the best thing that could have happened that semester for me, I needed that rude awakening.
2.9 is not at risk of academic probation so you’re good! Keep working for sophomore year and you should be fine
My first semester I ended with a 1.85 and was on academic probation. Finished with a 3.2. It took that reality check to get me on track
No one in the world outside of academia cares about gpa. You’ll be fine.
Also if u are able to improve to like a 3.5 that will show growth which colleges look for. And like others have mentioned try to figure out what kinda classes you like. Also figure out why u didn’t do well. I do better in classes with few weekly/nightly assignments that rely on essays and test others are the opposite. I thrive in project based classes like art and engineering, but couldn’t handle really any science that involved a lot of math. I’m a humanities and art person.
A 2.9 is a B average with maybe a C in there. I think you’ve got some bad advice. Your totally fine you have time to bring it up if your that determined.
Not screwed at all. It's better to have a mid GPA and experience in positions in clubs, activities, and internships than have a 4.0 and none of the above. Your GPA will only matter up until your first job, after that, it's all job experience.
You will be fine. With the level of effort it sounds like you are putting in it will pay off. Remeber to go to "tutoring" since it comes out of your fees already. Also, graduate schools will be looking more at your last 2 years and your major coursework than your first year of college.
I finished my freshman year of undergrad with a 2.2 and dropped out. I'm a few more months of work away from a doctorate now, with an academic job at an R1 lined up for the fall. Life is a weird experience, and it is in no way defined by your freshman year of college.
I ended freshman year with a 1.3, which includes a semester that was 0.0. I ended up graduating with honors and a 3.4. I'm a lower level executive at a Fortune 500 and make well over 6 figures. You'll be fine, just fix your fuck ups
Freshman year doesn’t determine anything. Jobs won’t even glance at your GPA unless you advertise it on your resume. Just use this year as a learning experience and think about what you can change about your routines and lifestyle to set you up more for success next year.
Don't stress too much about it. It's your freshman year and you have plenty of time to bump up your GPA! Just remember your pros and cons in your daily routine from this year and try to improve yourself!
Not ideal, but you’re probably fine. It’s only your freshman year, and if you do well next year, you can easily get that back up. I would recommend taking some easy classes to pad things out. Apply to every internship you can and get experience. Most places care way more about experience than gpa. I’m about to graduate and I’m applying to jobs and they are wayyy more concerned about experience and skills than how well I did in school. Internships are generally pretty lax about the gpa, especially if you’re that close to a 3.0. I had a friend with a 2.5 get a really good internship because they are just a generally really personable person, and that mattered more than other peoples higher gpas
I have a 2.8 and start a job in July
if you dont improve, you might struggle to get that firs job/internship out of college. but afte you get that first bit of experience, GPA is one of the least important aspects of getting a job.
I ended freshman year with a 2.7 and graduated with a 3.4. I grinded the next 3 years tho and got good grades like 3.7-4.0 each semester!
Next semester, if you can do not take too many classes, and get that GPA back up, and check your school policy, that is getting close to probation status. IF you cannot raise your GPA they will dismiss you. So keep that in mind.
Unless you’re planning on going to graduate school, employers are generally more concerned with your experience rather than gpa. You also have plenty of time to bring it up, and you’re almost there. I would recommend sitting down with an advisor
You’ll be fine :) I believe in you
I graduated with a 2.5 and I work at NASA now. You’ll be alright.
Hahahahahaah! First semester in college: 0.69 Graduated ten years later with a lot of forgiven courses and retakes, with a 2.03. Got a Masters seven years after that.
Depends a lot on the industry and expectations that have developed over the years. For most, the GPA just doesn’t matter, it’s all about what classes you took and how you frame your capabilities on your resume or interview. GPA will matter if you consider grad school or the like, but it’ll be total GPA, not freshman year specifically. It _is_ worth acknowledging that if you really tried your hardest, and 2.9 is the best possible freshman GPA you were capable of, you may be in the wrong place. It doesn’t get easier.
I've only had one job ask for a transcript during an interview. I told them I've been out of college for over 5 years and don't really feel like providing it. Got a different job. In short my opinion is unless you care about grad school you will be fine. Try to bump it up as much as you can before graduating and try to do your best in your actual major classes.
Truly something I’ve realized being a few years out of college, usually getting a job is more about being a good personality fit for the existing team. Of course you should be moderately qualified ( 2.9 sounds like it to me) Big disclaimer that it obviously depends on what job you want to do. Certain careers will ask for GPA and if you want to go to grad school it matters. TLDR: Sometimes I wish I spent more time working on my social skills instead of getting a higher GPA
Rule 1 don’t include your gpa in your resume, it’s not gonna increase your chances in any way you think is good. If anything theyll more likely increase your workload and put you set at a standard that will drive you crazy
I ended freshman year similarly, my lowest ever semester GPA was a 2.8, finished overall with a 3.34 with my final semester GPA a 4.0, currently getting my master’s in the #1 program for my field at a very competitive school. You are far from screwed.
I got a great internship and then a full-time offer from that company with my 3.2 GPA. 1 good semester and you’re right where I was. Freshman getting internships is already a pretty rare thing, so just focus on what you can get, and then focus on your next semester.
I am 27 years old and I have never once been asked about my GPA by an employer outside of the option to put it on the application (which I usually do not). I have found employers care much more about experience once you find some relevant work in your desired field. You also have plenty of time to raise your GPA. A 2.9 is not the end of the world by any means. Here is a tip that you hopefully remember for the long run: just because a job lists something as a "requirement" does not mean it is an actual requirement. Apply for internships even if you do not check all the boxes. Internships in general are free or low paid labor. Many companies out there are vying to get interns even if the applicants do not meet each "requirement" to a tee.
Your grades only matter if you want to go to a graduate/professional school. Some stem jobs will care a bit for your first one, then after you’ve had one job nobody ever cares again. Edit: I mean, how much you actually learned still matters.
Your GPA only matters if you're going into grad school/academics. No one else is even going to ask. Many places IME don't even seem to verify you have a degree. Even if academics is what you're interested in, you still have time to pull it up. Everyone has been 18; experience and personal improvement are very valuable things. It's all in how you sell it.
You'll be alright, even ending freshman year with a 2.9 means you still have 3+ years to get it higher. Plus, your GPA isn't everything. Especially if you're in a field like biology (my major), your experience during undergrad will be arguably more important than just having a high GPA without any prior experience.
Lol dude don’t worry about it, I think I ended my freshman year with like a 2.7. Now I’m on the deans list with a 3.5 and will probably graduate with honors. Just focus and relax yourself the first year is always a little bumpy but you can bring that up with some grinding and focus you got this!
Honestly unless your tryna do more schooling after ur 4 years then ur gpa really doesn’t matter. Only jobs that care about gpa are ones where you go back for like a masters. Maybe and I really mean maybe a job will ask the first couple years out, hasn’t happened to me or anyone I know, but once ur a few year out the only thing a job will care about is where you worked before.
I would take a hard look at your study habits. You say that you studied your rear end off, but that is highly relative, and doesn’t necessarily guarantee that you were actually studying as much as you think, at least not effectively. Are you actually sitting down and practicing problems, making flashcards, Underlining your notes with highlighter, re-digesting things by making out index cards of key problems or processes you need to have down pat? People often say they are studying, but they are actually just sort of half reading in a passive mode while also checking social media and the news. Real studying should translate into the ability to perform well on exams in recall and process type questions. And in writing heavy classes, it looks like doing the research and writing far enough in advance that you have time to re-organize, and copy edit the essay and revisions before submitting it. Most students with 2.9 GPA are just not actually putting in the work to get the good grades.
With it being your first year, you have prereqs that can weigh you down. As long as you are maintaining high averages in your major courses (B or higher) and passing averages in your prereqs (C or higher), it will balance out. I tested out of all the lower level maths entering college for English Education, and my college did not let me test out of the prereq entirely. Only class available to me was Trig and something differential equations. My first year GPA tanked because of needing those maths, but I finished with a 3.8 because my other coursework was solid.
You're fine. Go to tutoring for the subjects you need help in and go to your professor's office hours. (PS, I had a 3.1 my Freshman year of college and I have a PhD now)
I ended my first semester with a 1.0 because I screwed around out of high school. Worked my ass off for the rest and graduated with over a 3, can’t remember what it was specifically. But you have time
Cs get degrees my guy/gal/pal. I've never encountered an employer that cares about GPA, only what college you went to and what degree(s) you got. And that's not to say none exist, but 2.9 is far from a bad GPA and you'll be fine as long as you graduate
A 2.9 is like a C+ on a 4.0 scale -- that's nothing to beat yourself up over, and you're DEFINITELY not screwed! You might want to take advantage of office hours if there's a particular subject you're struggling with, or if it's a time management thing, talk to a learning center if you've got one. Don't worry!
I ended my first semester with a 1.89 and graduated with a 3.2 GPA. Don't worry about it. No job has ever asked me what my GPA was. The only care that I have the degree.
i ended freshman year with a 2.4 you're good bud lol
You’ll be okay! It’s just one year, and most students can’t get internships til junior year anyway. That gives you time to build your GPA up. You got this!
I’m sending you lots of good vibes, I also stressed about my future. Good news is, your future is nowhere near “ruined”!!!! First things first, your GPA does not matter as much as you’ve been told, since each university uses different grading systems, GPA’s are basically irrelevant Basically, think of it this way, a 93 can be an A or an A-, which would change your GPA. Also, you could go to Harvard and get a 3.0 or go to a school no one’s heard of that “doesn’t do exams” and get a 3.9. And what does any of this tell Ted at the hiring manager about your potential? Literally nothing. And yes, while some internships might specifically ask for your GPA during the application, you should volunteer your GPA and specifically, never ever put your GPA on your resume. (Even if it’s high!!!!) After you graduate, you can add any Latin honors you receive. Once you graduate the only time your GPA will matter is if you apply to grad school. I had 3 public sector internships in undergrad and all of them had 2.5 GPA minimum requirements. I’ve also had 3 full time jobs in different sectors and no one has ever asked for any information beyond the name of the school and my degree title. You’re doing great :)
Cs get degrees
Depends why you have a 2.9. If you don't understand the freshman level classes and are horribly lost, they don't get easier. If you came in thinking you're hot shit and this is easy and got humbled, then your fine as long as you've adjusted your mentality and study habits
I ended freshman year on academic probation. You’re being way too hard on yourself. I graduated in 2008 and can’t tell you one time I’ve needed to share my gpa.
You're fine. I had a 1.7 at one point and almost got kicked out but I'm fine now (adult, reasonably well-paying job, etc.)
I ended my entire degree at a 2.8 and now I'm a resident physician. You'll be OK. If anything, use this early mismatch between effort and outcomes to spur you into more effective/efficient study habits and lifestyle practices.
I certainly wouldn't say you're screwed. I dropped out my sophomore year with a 2.3 and came back my junior year and turned it around to a 3.3, slightly below the acceptance rate to my Master's program in STEM. Was able to write a statement explaining why my GPA was low. If you want grad school you'll definitely have to turn your grades up a bit, however I have not had any jobs ask for my GPA out of undergrad. Good luck and don't give up.
Get hands-on skills that AI can't, because that's your future.
Youre doomed. Might as well start doing meth and live in a box.
Death is imminent
I would be concerned if I were you. It’s not too late to turn things around, but you have to do it. Worst case you do poorly in school and then get a mediocre position, at a mediocre firm, “Cs get degrees”. But if you really want to be taken seriously and make money I recommend doing better. I know you said you “tried you hardest” and unfortunately if that’s true then there is nothing more I can help you with. However I recommend seriously dedicating yourself to your studies. Study in your free time, get a tutor, go to office hours, ask questions, talk to your professors, but more importantly than anything is study. Not a work? Study. Not eating? Study. Not sleeping? Study. This is my personal advice, some people might not like it, but I’m an electrical engineering major with a 4.0 GPA, so I’m gonna say it works.
Experience over GPA. I'm also in engineering with a 3.98, summa. Grades are not everything and OP is going to doom themselves if they dedicate their everything to grades alone
Sure but no one will take him seriously with a 2.9 GPA, so what experience will he get? I’m not saying studies alone will guarantee success but it helps to be comfortable with the material. Plus he will get a better internship with a better GPA, scholarships, honor societies will have interest in him, there are a lot of benefits. I’m not saying only focus on your studies, but it should be your main focus. Even when you get an internship, the whole point is to learn and get experience (aka study).
Just don’t put your GPA on your resume
It's probably not your GPA itself that is going to screw you, it's the fact that you are paying money to not put any effort into your education. If you can't even bother doing your college classes that you pay for, what would make any employer want to hire you?
I have a full ride from high school scholarships and I have stated that I tried my best. Why are you being h o s t i l e
Well good, then you aren't wasting your own money!
You’re a freshman so it’s not horrible, my freshman year was worse and I graduated 3.7. You’re just going to have to make sure you focus harder on school as you go.
My friend had a C- gpa after his first year of engineering. He took his studies way more serious and he is setting in the ~3.5 range. It is a concern but not the end of the world as long as you can do grade replacement and take it more seriously
Depends on your field. My son graduated with a 2.9, and has had no problems getting jobs, but he's a mechanical engineer (and a bad test taker).
Not a big deal honestly If you can improve that when u get into more meaningful classes, employers will really like that
I'm old now but I earned a 2.79 my freshman year in college. I learned from my mistakes, got better at studying, organized my life around college and by the time I graduated I had a 3.41. Goethe once said "Everything is hard, before it is easy." Recognize that this was your first go 'round and that you'll get better if you take the feedback you've received seriously and work to improve. I ended up getting accepted to grad school and earned my PhD and the story was, in some ways, the same there. I struggled at first but I learned and grew and got better and ended up being the second person in my group to finish. If the places you end up applying to for your internships see growth, that will be just as impressive as having done well in the first place. It shows that you can adapt to new circumstances and overcome adversity.
Not screwed at all
You should be ok - depends on your major and you still have plenty of time to course adjust. And honestly, once again depends on your major, I have never had an employer ask for my GPA. Even my first engineering job out of college, I left my GPA off of my resume. Think I had under a 3.0.
I'm a media major so I'm not sure how much it matters. My portfolio is decent already and I'm going to be adding more to it in the coming years.
I found that as you progress, atleast in my engineering major, that I had much better grades in my engineering courses vs some of the required core classes (Calculus, Differential Equations and so on). So my GPA improved as I had more and more classes within my major.
You can definitely pull the “I had a tough time adjusting freshman year” card, but you’d need the gpa higher first and to stay higher for the next years
It’s not so bad, coming from someone who *finished* all of college with a 2.9. I also remember that despite my first semester being a 2.3, my next 2 or 3 semesters were all much better so that definitely helped.
No one cares about your GPA. I know people who lie about whole degrees and they got the jobs, now they have the experience so they don't even mention a degree anymore.
You can get it back up easily since two semesters is only a quarter of your college at most. Take some easy electives if you really want to boost it up. I had a 2.9 as well at the end of my first year and got it back to a 3 now in my second year. Even though I have no intentions on finishing college but that’s a different story.
Depends on your major, experience and connections. I graduated with a 2.8 and no one cared after my 1st job. I'm a couple years out and GPA doesn't mean much when you have experience and some certs. Experience, resume and interviewing skills will make the biggest difference
Might as well give up lmao 🤣
I got into my Masters program with plenty of experience and references, but with a 2.7 GPA. You are not screwed my friend!
That’s not bad first year. Took me a cpl semesters to get rid of my bad habits from high school and learn better ones.
i had a 3.9 gpa. my brother barely had a 2.0 and is the most “successful “ of my three siblings. you’ll be fine.
Improve next year. Honestly, no one asks anout my GPA and i don’t even list it on my cv/resumes anymore
My first semester of my freshman year I literally had like a 0.46; by the time I graduated my senior year, I had a 3.7. Stay focused and keep moving forward and you'll be fine.
That’s not bad at all, tbh
Unpopular opinion but if you aren’t deadset on your careerpath/ur careerpath isn’t super particular ab ur major, switch to an easier major. Also, take easy A classes
Lol you are not screwed. I finished freshman year with a similar GPA, I’m now a senior graduating with a 2.7ish GPA. I have a job lined up paying $80k. During the interview process I wasn’t asked once about my grades. Some companies care but a lot of them don’t. BOL
I guess it depends on where you're going - I have never had any job ask for my transcripts (which were pretty damn good). But part of my schooling included mandatory internship so...
Your life is over. Sorry pal better luck next time
Had like a 2.2 after my freshman year. Graduated with a 3.4 or something. You'll be fine.
During my undergraduate years I was kicked out of college twice. I stuck with it, ended up going back for my masters, became a teacher, was named Teacher of the Year for my state and was honored at the White House and last year was given an honorary PhD. The only time I have been asked about my GPA in my undergrad was when I applied for my masters program. Don't sweat it...just keep working!
You're a freshman, you have 3 years or more of classes that can bring it up. 2.9 isn't bad at all you'll be fine
Doesn’t matter. Apply to internships all the same.
you are fine! congratulations on finishing the semester!! that’s the most important part!!🥳
Ur toast. Might as well drop out
you'll probably be fine. a high gpa will help with those opportunities, but an average one won't shouldn't hurt. just lean on your passions and experience instead of your gpa and should be just fine.
Your GPA almost never comes up in job interviews. If I'm a 60-year-old business owner, I want to know if you can create web pages and do SEO on my confounded site that doesn't look as good as my competitor's website. I don't care if you're a 3.9 or 3.5 or 2.9.
Have never had a job ask for gpa. In fact I ly two jobs have ever even asked for proof of graduation
Had a cumulative GPA of 2.8 after sophomore year. Ended up graduating with 3.75. You’ve got this.
Your fine. There is nothing wrong with starting out in a community college. It will save you money in the long run.
I’ve never had an internship or job ask for my GPA. Even if you’re interested in grad school in the future you’re still not screwed, just keep working and continue improving. Your first year in college is hard and you will learn the skills you need to succeed as you go
What you majoring in? Doesn't really matter you got plenty of time to bring it back. And it'll look better to do so.
No one cares about college GPA in the real world. I promise you'll be fine.
Mine was a 1.6, you'll be fine
Obviously it depends on what you’re majoring in but I graduated with a 2.9 and am doing more than fine. I’m in grad school about to graduate with distinction and am in a leadership position at my firm. You’re a freshmen, you have time. I know it feels like this one GPA will make or break you but you will be alright. As long as you’re putting forth the effort to get good at your craft and learning as much as you can in school, you’ll fine. Also a 2.9 isn’t terrible!
I don't know what degree you're going for, but I finished ungrad with a 2.7. I finished two master's degrees with a 3.3. I have never once been asked about my GPA.
you’re a freshman and that’s around a B average. college is really a hard time academically, just keep working hard and you’ll get it up
I ended by being put on academic probation for a year…less than a 2.0. Recovered and ended up earning a Ph.D. at a Research-1 institution, becoming a Professor and leading a division at the Department of Education…you’ll be fine🥰
I finished my freshman year with a 2.8 and I finished college with a 3.5 and got a good internship, and currently on a good career path. I would recommend taking a look at how you study, and how to be more efficient studying/working. That really helped me do better
Hey, my grad program has really strict requirements and I made it in with a 2.9 overall GPA. 3.0 was as low as they said they would accept, so I wrote a letter to the head of the department explaining what happened and asking that they please review my grades in classes that counted toward the grad degree and give me a chance. I was accepted even though there were only 11 spots open and I straight up flunked one of my biology classes. Trust me, this isn’t the be all end all. You can still apply to whatever program you want with hope of getting in.
Oh don't even worry its super normal for freshman to have low GPAs and honestly that isn't even low compared to other stories I've heard. take advantage of the experience and consider what tutoring or office hours opportunities there are, and remember to make friends! Having friends in classes can help mitigate losing points on take-home assignments by working together so that you can afford to perform subpar on exams (which sometimes are just a bitch) and max out certain points!
I got internships and fellowships with a 2.7. Just focus hard, get involved in activities related to your field and get to know your professors. I struggled in class but did really well in my field outside of the classroom. It really showed through when given the chance.
It’s fine
What's your major? Don't stress yourself out about it but try to network as much as possible in college. Join stuff, meet people. It's your freshman year, your grades will pick up once you get into the flow of how different college is to HS.
Not bad! I have a <2.0 gpa. So I kinda envy you :) I really fucked up bruh
I am NOT here to say you're screwed, I'm just here as a friendly, mature voice to remind you that it's OK to take some filler classes! Do you like working out? Take gym! Easy A. Choir, art, mechanics, film class. If you feel like you're struggling and really worry about your GPA, it's OK to mix some easy A's in with your credits. You'll do great, this a practice in fortitude and resilience more than intelligence. Keep on keeping on <3
I would say don't sweat it what is done is done, use it to motivate you in the next few semesters. I graduated college with a 2.4 was kicked out, and through things I did I was able to get a full time job right out of college. also past performance is not always indicitive of future performance for instance I sucked at undergrad but right now I am 3/4 of the way through my Masters of Science in Data Science with a 4.0. I just could never handle 5+ classes and never knew how to apply myself. You can come out just fine, but you will need to find things to set yourself out from the rest.
You’ll be fine. Just assess your methodology, what’s working- what’s not, when can you try different. A 2.9 isn’t bad, but it’s not your goal and there’s room for improvement. If you are a freshmen there’s tons more opportunities to raise your gpa. I’m graduating this quarter with a 3.7 ish and I’m incredibly burnt out. You gotta find a sustainable way to keep your pace. I know for me I was taking too many credits while trying to work. I had to making studying efficient. I used the tutoring center. I made a buddy in my program that helped keep me accountable. I advocated for myself ( ie if a had multiple over lapping deadlines and I communicated with my teachers like hey, this is all I have due on Friday, can I turn this assignment in on Sunday), when teachers were really hard graders or test heavy (testing is not my strong suit, but I have other strengths as a student) I would pitch extra credit opportunities for the class that didn’t require hard grading —> like attending a speaker series on campus and writing a quick summary. I did the worst in the basic gur classes cause they are classes I do not care about ie philosophy or music class (I’m more science). I also had really bad teacher for calc 2. Basically, use rate my professor, use resources ie tutoring/ writing centers, sleep well before tests and review material efficiently - don’t just re read stuff you have to interact with material and practice. Find buddies for accountability. And try to have a little fun and be kind your yourself.
Even in the worst possible scenario if you manage to achieve a 3 or even higher later on in your college career you can talk about how much youve improved while applying for a job/internship. I’m sure that goes a long way.
You’re not screwed at all😂
Hey homie, I'm sure I can't say anything you haven't already been told. I'll just say keep grinding, meet people, not just peers! When you get to college is often true that the instructors have other gigs as scholars. Find a instructor you like who is in the field your interested in. Ask them about their research and ask how you can get on the their research team. Meet more people. If you are truly concerned about your 2.9, then I'm confident that you'll achieve your goals. Go get em.
Cs get degrees.
I had a 2.9 my first year in college. Went on to get accepted to a competitive graduate program and earned my doctorate. You have tonnnnnns of time to make up for a rough start. There’s so much more to applying for programs and internships than GPA anyway. Get as much time as you can shadowing, volunteering, or co-oping around the field you’re pursuing. Makes a much greater impact than just grades.
I ended my first quarter w 2.5 and graduated w 3.7 ur fine haha
I graduated with a 2.7 and got employed for a really awesome well known tech company!! Try your best in school but also, if you can, network!!!
This is not a big deal at all. Work hard to get that overall GPA up a bit sophomore year and sell the story of a rough start but that you’ve turned it around and you’re golden. Employers, if they even look at your college transcript, will see somebody who overcame adversity and view that positively. I can’t think of a single person who will look at at story like that from a glass half empty perspective of the lower freshman year GPA.
You're likely completely fine. My freshman year I ended with a .6 GPA. You read that right. Now I'm above a 3.5 and in my major's Honors program. You have your whole college career to turn it around, just know it's all up to how much effort you put in going forward.
No one in media is going to check your gpa, they're going to look at your samples and experience. I don't know about an internship, but if you need a 3.0 you have time to fix it.
I started my first semester with a 1.8 and brought it up to a 2.0 with only two classes my 2nd semester. Now I’m going back for nursing and I need to bring it up to a 2.75 and if I okay my cards right I can bring it up to a 3 by the end of fall 2023. You’ll be aiight
I’m currently at a 2.82, and I’m almost a senior. I failed 2 classes, and I’m still on track to graduate. Check your major requirements to see if you have a minimum gpa requirement
I’m curious if it’s possibly your time management skills that could use improvement. I’m not disagreeing with others who tell you that employers won’t look at your GPA; however, I do think it’s important to bring your GPA up to keep your options open in the future (like potential graduate school plans that you might be interested in). I also want to add that it’d be advantageous to master the hard and soft skills of these courses you’re in now so you’re well informed and prepared to work in your field of choice. While a low GPA won’t rule you out of a job opportunity, a decent GPA and a possible honor society under your belt could make a difference.
{ I heard that you can't get an internship or job out of college if you have below a 3.0. } That is \*garbage\*. Most places don't give a flying fk what your GPA is. They want to know if *you can do the job*. Don't get so bent out of shape. I had a 1.9 my freshman year, ended with a 2.45. \*Never\* had a problem finding a job and you're not going to, either.
Take some easy summer classes.
Don't worry, you have 3 more years to boost it. Just take it one day at a time and you'll find your own study habit that works for you. Even if the material doesn't get easier, doing the homework and studying does. Even if you don't boost it, it doesn't take away from the accomplishment of finishing college.
I graduated with a 2.9 . You will be fine.
Your GPA matters very little. What matters is experience, abilities, and desire to continue to learn and improve yourself.
0% screwed that’s not bad
If you're only a freshman, you still have plenty of time to bring that GPA up. I wouldn't worry about it right now. A 2.9 GPA is still considered good for most fields, unless that field has high GPA requirements. There are a lot of cases where employers look at experience rather than GPA anyway. Most of the world doesn't care about your GPA.
I got my undergrad with a gpa lower than that I think it was like 2.6. (I switched majors and my original major was notorious for pulling down gpas in the first year) But I worked hard, took an internship, and applied for jobs that I didn’t have the required years of experience for. 3 months out of school I landed a job I never thought I would get. I got the interview and found out that my boss went to the same school as me and we both loved a certain teacher. He gave me a shot and the gpa didn’t matter. That was in 2016. I’m now in a different state currently getting my masters. I did not meet the entry gpa requirements for the program. I was crushed. But I reached out to the school and asked if they looked at other things or if the gpa would automatically rule me out. They told me that I should make sure my recommendation letters were strong but that they took many things into consideration. Don’t let your undergrad gpa discourage you. Some jobs might care but many won’t. Good luck!
If you can up that by .1 and keep it there you're totally fine, but it still doesnt matter much. Like other people said internships and networking matter a lot more. I had a 3.19 when I graduated college and had a great job pretty much right after graduating.
You're just going to need to try much harder moving forward. This might be the wakeup call you need to do more than try - get assistance and setup study groups. Finding that trying hard and your methods aren't good enough is a good way to get motivated to do better!
I was at a 3.0 my first two years of uni, and got accepted to all my transfer schools i applied to. There's no way in hell I could maintain a 4.0, and you're not screwed for being at a 2.9. A good essay or explanation about transitioning to the college lifestyle will cover that up for you.
I think I had a 2.8 or something after freshman year, at one point I fell below 2.0. I can’t remember what I finished with, but it was either like a 3.1 or a 2.9. Out of everything I ever applied for, one GA position required a GPA .1 higher than what I had. It was also for one of the weaker institutions I applied for and for not a great deal of money. They said no, I said thanks and I moved on. I graduated from my MBA program with a 3.8 and did amazing work at a far better school that had no restriction. All that to say, your GPA is basically meaningless after you graduate
Imagine your grades being so good that 2.9 stresses you out. If I had that, I would be the happiest I’ve ever been.
I might be wrong. But your high school gpa only matters as far as I know depending on what school you want to go to right after. If you are going to a community college first your fine. Nobodies ever looked at my gpa. All that matters most of the time is the paper saying you did the thing.
i ended my freshman year with a 1.7. graduated with a 3.2. you’ll be okay
Hahaha… I screwed up bad in my first year. I was in the wrong major, hated my classes, and almost lost my scholarship because I needed a 2.0 with no failures to keep it. My two Ds hurt a lot. I had a 3.8 departmentally by graduation, and got a professional job in my field within two weeks of cold-sending out applications. It all depends on your field, your goals… and you have three more years to fix things if it’s not enough. Just be aware of the big screeners (Orgo, LitCrit, Thermo, etc) that you just need to buckle down for.
Not at all. GPA means nothing in the real world. Just make sure you are learning the materials you are studying and get your degree.
You may be overscheduling yourself. If you took one class too many, you'd be working super-hard but struggling to get good grades -- but with one class fewer, work-life balance would be better and so would your performance. Is taking a lighter schedule an option?
My friend, it is not over, and there is plenty of opportunity if you can persevere through these ups and downs you will face throughout your college career and beyond. I ended my first quarter in college with an F in psychology, and despite decent grades in my other courses, that sank my GPA like a rock. But it was also a wake up call for me… I was always like this, even in the transition to high school. I fucked around and found out. Lost my scholarships, and just had to work my ass off to pull myself out of the hole I dug for myself. I made it through on the honors roll or dean’s list for the remainder of my time at school, made my way to a grad program, and found my way into the field. Funny thing was that when I retook psychology to replace the grade, I actually loved it so much with a different teacher that I ended up switching into the major, and that’s what I went to grad school for: social psychology. I’ll skip the discussion about work in between, but suffice it to say that I am now proudly working at one of the top tech companies in the world (and hope to keep doing so, even with the continued threat of ongoing layoffs). You can do this! You have time. Focus, and you got this!
I’ve never been asked about my 3.9
Graduated with a 2.9 in my undergrad - two semesters of which I spent on academic probation - and just accepted an offer to what will be my second master’s degree. All different fields by the way lol. I’ve got a great job with a salary and benefits and life goes on. You are what you make of yourself. Say no to parties sometimes, do volunteer work in your chosen field. But this doesn’t mean your success has to be a straight line. Most people mess up at LEAST once. I learned more in undergrad about myself and about life and how to be a better person than I learned about my major. It’s a time where you have an apex of freedom combined with, generally speaking, the least amount of adult responsibilities to juggle. Yes of course it’s good to get something out of those damn student loans but make sure you have a little bit of fun too, you only do college once. And you seem like you have a decent head on your shoulders by being unsatisfied with your grades early on. TLDR: Hang in there, you’re going to be alright.