Getting In To Grad School

     An Applicant's Guide to Graduate School Admissions

Apply now or later?

Submitted by Holly Lancaster on Thu, 2006-03-02 12:33.

Dare I call you my guardian angel? I am a soul that wears a sign reading, "graduate school or bust", and I fear the latter may have a higher probability or the two. I am Miss Maria Average, and sadly so in every sense of the word. Though I am not applying, as of this moment, to any school that holds the key to my academic future, I email you for some guidance.

I have 3.0 GPA, though is still awaiting 2 more semesters worth of grading. I have not taken my GREs yet and already have three letters of recommendation. My question to you is, do you think I should continue for one more semester to boost my grades before I begin the actual process of applying?

Thank you so much for your time, energy, and consideration.

Posted in The Process of Applying | | previous forum topic | next forum topic »





The one sure way to be denied admission...

... is never to apply in the first place! I think you should apply.

You've got good grades, an obvious passion for the subject, and other options in case this round doesn't turn out. Why wait thinking things will get even better when they're already pretty good? If you don't get into any of the target schools, you will have an opportunity to learn. What would THEY suggest: more classes, better scores, additional work experience, or the like. After all, they're the ones who know exactly their qualifications, and would be most able to answer the question.

More importantly, you should pose the same question to folks at interesting programs now. Rather than learn from history, see whether they think your qualifications suffice. You should expect a bland answer, but may be pleasantly surprised with more detail to help bolster your candidacy.

And of course, use your recommenders. What do THEY think?

Your likelihood for success obviously depends on the quality of school you're hoping to attend. But the only way I can assure you that you WILL fail is if you don't try, and that seems like a silly choice among the alternatives.

Submitted by Dave Burrell on Sat, 2006-03-04 15:33.
I'll try

Thank you for getting back to me so timely; a pleasant surprise. I'm glad you think I can make it. Thank you so much for your response! I'm going to apply and just see what happens!

Truly grateful,

Holly.

Submitted by Holly Lancaster on Sat, 2006-03-04 15:33.
Copyright David T. Burrell, January 1999-2006. All rights reserved.
Community Website Creation by Growing Venture Solutions