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When considering a student with a marginal UG performance I wonder if the student is ability limited or motivationally limited. If the student is ability limited we usually won't admit him or her. If the student is motivationally limited I want evidence that the situation has changed. You have one semester remaining, so it is a great chance to demonstrate that you have the ability and that your motivation is now in place. Another way to demonstrate ability is to get a really strong score on whatever standardized test the program uses. Extracurricular activities usually don't count for much in my field, but the field you are interested in may be different. You also want to convince whoever is making the admission decision that you have finally figured out exactly what you want to do. You can do this by meeting him or her in person, or by writing a really good essay as part of your application package. However if your undergraduate record is spotty your chances of successfully competing for a graduate assistantship in a top program may be sunk. Strong programs have many very well-qualified applicants and may be less willing to take a risk on a student with a mixed record.
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