Do colleges look at quarter grades?

Will colleges look at this?

• Will colleges look at this? Well first, I'm in high school. I am in a business and marketing class, and I have an A (4.0) in it. I recently won first place in a district mark/business competition, and made it to states. I am into this, and hope to continue on with the courses next year. I also play piano. I compete and just perform. I have been to piano competitions and festivals, and have many certificates and a trophy. I like to sing to, i have gotten some awards for singing too, and perform whenever I can (outside of school). But I don't know about my grades. I am really worried about my history grade. Will colleges look deeply into this? I am in Pre-AP World history. Right now, we are into the second quarter, with only one more week to go. I had a B (3.0) for first quarter, but I think my grade is lower for second. Assuming i have a C (2.0) for second quarter, will this bring my GPA down considerably? Will colleges not approve of this? I am hoping my grade on my final transcript for this year will be a B. Right now my other grades are all A's, and a B. But I think history is a C. Assuming this, my GPA for the second quarter will be a 3.64. Is this bad? (and I think my GPA for first quarter was 3.75) Will colleges really see my C in history for the second quarter? Plus my two B's on first quarter? And assuming on my final transcript for this year, my history grade is a B-. Would this be really bad? Will colleges reject me for this? Sorry this is so long, I am just worried. And if it helps, I'm a freshmen, and I really want to go to a good college! Oh and Pre-AP history is basically an honors course before AP World. So basically whoever takes Pre-AP world, decides to take AP world the following year. Please help me, Thanks.

• Answer:

  Yes, colleges will look at your transcript (your classes and grades from all of high school) and GPA for admissions. One "bad" grade (a C is not terrible, you just don't want to make a habit of C's) will not kill your GPA or your shot at a good college. Colleges these days look at GPA and SAT/ACT scores, but also your resume of involvement (sports, clubs, volunteering, and other activities), leadership, and work and your admissions essays. College admissions are more than just numbers now; they look at you as a person. As a freshman, you've got plenty of time to keep your academic record strong (stick with AP! they're excellent preparation for college, even if you have a B average). Make sure to be involved in a few activities (a variety if possible) and get involved as a leader, too. A part-time job once you're a little older is a good way to save some money for college and get some work experience, too. Good luck!