retaking undergrad classes

[TBCTT]

I have two classes from undergrad (100-200) level classes that I got Ds in.  I dont like it.  they were both from my first year of college way back in 08.  I am applying to graduate school next fall for IR programs and do not like these "blemishes" on my transcript.  Would retaking them to prove that I can actually perform well in classes I screwed up in be an alright thing to do? 

 

[Kaneisha]

Hey TBCTT,

 

Bad grades on your transcript totally suck. I got a C the semester right before I was applying to Harvard, and I remember crying when I got my grades! But it turned out fine. See my response below to your question.

 

I have two classes from undergrad (100-200) level classes that I got Ds in.  I dont like it.  they were both from my first year of college way back in 08.  I am applying to graduate school next fall for IR programs and do not like these "blemishes" on my transcript.  Would retaking them to prove that I can actually perform well in classes I screwed up in be an alright thing to do? 

 

Yes, that would be a great thing to do. Just know that retaking classes after you have graduated does not retroactively increase or change your undergraduate GPA. You can also address these blemishes on your transcript in an optional essay if the school gives you the option to write one. In the optional essay, you'll want to do the following:

• point out the problem (don't worry about drawing their attention to it; they are going to notice it)
• state why the problem happened
• share what you learned from the experience
• share what resources / support systems / action plans you've put in place so that if you encounter a similar challenge it won't have the same negative impact on your grades
• end on an upbeat, enthusiastic, positive note

Best of luck with your application!

Kaneisha

[Jufarius87]

I think it depends on the courses. If they were courses that are not particularly relevant to earning an MPP then I would say you are fine as long as you have an upward grade trend. If they are core courses like economics or mathematics however then yes go ahead and take them again.