Need opinions on my prospects for engineering grad school

[potts14]

I am in need of some guidance concerning graduate school. I am a student in mechanical engineering at Oklahoma State University. Long story short, I made some awful grades my junior year because I thought art was my calling—turned out to be a big mistake. I passed 6 out of 24 attempted hours of class, and my GPA plummeted. I somehow managed to maintain a full ride scholarship, however.

Prior to this horrible year, I had about a 3.5 GPA and now I’m down to just over a 3.1, including all the F’s (3.32 overall GPA by the university’s criteria which excludes four retakes). In the past three semesters and two summers since this year I have maintained a 4.0 (57 hours of coursework, almost exclusively upper level ME and math), completed a math minor, and halfway completed a physics minor. I have a part-time undergraduate research position lined up for the summer and my final semester, as well as a summer internship. I take the GRE General in March and have two more semesters to graduate.

My question is: what are my prospects for graduate school in mechanical or materials engineering, given this year of bad grades? How bad is this going to hurt me? Clearly I have no chance at getting into a top-tier program. Are schools like the University of Illinois at Chicago or Oregon State out of reach for me? What level of schools should I be considering for graduate study?

My primary goal is to go to graduate school outside Oklahoma. I just want some input on my prospects if I continue on the path I’m on now.

 

[R.Mesri]

Thanks.It's great that you have been able to maintain a 4.0 GPA over the past few semesters and have gotten involved in research and internships. This will be very helpful when it comes to applying to graduate schools. It shows that you are taking your academics seriously and are actively trying to improve your prospects for a successful career. It is true that your poor grades from your junior year may hurt your chances of getting into top tier programs, but that doesn't mean you won't get into any graduate program. Your grades from the past three semesters and two summers are likely to be more heavily weighted than your junior year grades when it comes to graduate admissions. You should definitely apply to schools like the University of Illinois at Chicago and Oregon State; these are both respected universities with well-regarded graduate programs in mechanical and materials engineering. While you may not get into their top programs, you still have a chance for admission if you present yourself in the best light possible. Make sure you have strong letters of recommendation, a compelling personal statement, and a competitive GRE score. Good luck!

 

[Mene]

I understand the importance of grades and academic performance in graduate school admissions. However, I also recognize that sometimes personal circumstances or mistakes can impact a student's academic record. Based on the information provided, it seems like you have taken the necessary steps to improve your academic performance after your junior year. Your 4.0 GPA in the past three semesters and your involvement in research and internships show your dedication and potential for success in graduate school.

It is important to note that admissions committees consider a variety of factors in addition to grades, such as research experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. Therefore, your overall application will be evaluated holistically.

While it may be more challenging to get into a top-tier program with a lower GPA, it is not impossible. I would recommend researching and applying to a range of schools, including both top-tier and mid-tier programs. You may also consider reaching out to potential advisors or faculty members at the schools you are interested in to discuss your situation and your research interests.

Ultimately, the best way to assess your prospects for graduate school is to apply and see how your application is received. Do not let your past mistakes discourage you from pursuing your goals. Continue to work hard and showcase your dedication and potential, and you may have a good chance of being accepted into a graduate program in mechanical or materials engineering. Best of luck to you in your future academic endeavors.