Much more cordial. You seem to be holding the 3.16 against me (which is understandable), so let me qualify it: I failed out my first year (standard story, laziness/partying/bad adjustment), which I spent at a good school on a large scholarship. Ive tried to avoid mediocrity ever since, and, so far, Ive done a good job. I'll be graduating this year with honors, with a publication, and fairly significant work experience. In sum, I hold myself to the highest standards, because I know Im capable of the highest standards and wont be satisfied with much else. The original post does sound pretty grim, but its a bit of hyperbole. My scores are consistent enough that Im not real worried about having a swing on the real deal. I was just shocked when it happened, and it certainly made me consider the chance of its occurrence come test day (which doesnt seem to be all that uncommon).