Candidate Question: Application Recommendations and Grades

Candidates, we are running a series of small posts which answer specific candidate’s questions. Feel free to submit questions as blog comments. If the information could help others, the question may be answered as a blog post under the Q&A category.

Candidate Question:

Do you know how heavily an applicant’s academic history plays into their application? I had a rough start to college, took time off to work, and then returned. I should be graduating with near a 3.5 (in supply chain management), but the transcripts will show a plethora of low grades. From what you’ve seen, do you think this would hurt my application package?
Also, what types of recommendations are desirable?
Thank you for your website and advice, I’m really glad that you created it!

A:

Grades: final GPA is what matters. Don’t fret one or two bad classes as long as at the end of the day, you show progress and a decent final GPA.
Recommendations from former Marine officers would be the best. Try for military officers, enlisted, positions of authority, and so forth. If you don’t know any former servicemembers, try for police officer acquaintances, sports coaches, pastors, and professors who know you well. Just look at application process from the view of the Marine Corps. Who would you like to hear from most?