I am currently applying to Higher Ed programs and this is my advice:
Although you should strive to keep your GPA above 3.0, there are other factors weighed in your application. Such as Rec letter, I would recommend to choose your recommenders wisely. You should choose professors that know who you are and supervisors who can speak wisely about you. Your personal statements should elaborate on your experiences as a first generation student. That is your time to tell them about yourself and how far you have come, despite the challenges.
Also, in your CV or Resume LIST ALL organizations and volunteer work you were involved in. This will show that you are a well rounded student.
If you are applying to schools that require the GRE then you must take it. My advice would be to start studying as soon as possible. Possibly between summer and winter breaks!
Otherwise, if you are not applying to schools that require a GRE score, I would save all the trouble and studying.
Its great that you are thinking of graduate school before graduation, congrats to you! Don't let your GPA discourage you, you will be a great applicant.
Although I am still working on my apps, this is what admission reps have advised! Good luck.
