Grades matter for many of the most competitive firms. If they are receiving apps from all members of the top 5 schools, call that 500-600. They need to filter somehow.
That said, there is a lot of demand for the skills and knowledge you will gain, and fit is more important than perception.
Consider reaching out to your student advisor earlier rather than later. Now that you’re in, you’re in. They want you to succeed.
My situation was pretty similar to what you describe, and I can say the CMU faculty and staff helped me tremendously - far above and beyond what I could have hoped for. Not sure what jobs will look like because I’m old and COVID stuff delayed my graduation, but so far, so good.
You’ll get this. And if someone gives you grief about your GPA - screw them. Just study as much as you can.
