I have faired very poorly in my undergrad studies with just a GPA of 2.5. I started working due to financial reasons even though I still had 3 more courses for my degree. I finished those courses a year later. The bright side i think is that fresh out of school I landed a real good job. I know you require much more qualifications to be doing what I do and I have learnt so much in the 18 months that I have been working. I have shown great motivation and good work ethics (my review said so). I can guarantee two great recommendations from my employers and supervisors and by next year when I want to get in to grad school, I will have three years of solid work experience with me.
What I am so afraid of is my low GPA. Many say that I can make up for that with good GRE scores and an exceptional personal statement but I fear that my aim of doing a masters will be shattered. What else can I do to negate my low GPA? Take nondegree grad courses? Meet faculty from the school. What is most helpful? In addition, what are the kinds of schools that I should consider? Top ranking ones are out of the picture. What about less competitive schools or mediocre ones?