Getting a professor to go over your academic transcript with you

[Simfish]

Does anyone else do this when applying to grad schools? And does anyone restrain themselves from doing this?

There's always the risk that the person writing your LOR might think less of you if they see your transcript, and that could decrease their opinion of you (an opinion that could be reflected in that LOR) => of course, you could have strengths on your transcript, but each professor is different, and some professors will weigh "negative" things as more strongly negative than others - they might also weigh "positive" things less strongly positive than others. On the other hand, the people reading your app will read both your LORs and your transcript, and they might note things that might seem to be discrepancies at first.

For those of us who might have a particularly strong (albeit not necessarily fatal) weakness in one area, this might be a significant concern. I'm definitely one of the stronger students in my department, but I have some really horrible grades in my first 2 years.

 

[jtbell]

If your professors are like me, they're going to look over your transcript anyway, before writing a recommendation. Professors here can call up any student's current transcript via their online access to the course registration system.

 

[Simfish]

Oh, do they always look at your transcript before writing a recommendation? Why does that information help? (if it's information that the adcom is going to get anyways?)

 

[Pengwuino]

I'm surprised a recommender would even look at your transcript. Aren't they suppose to write their recommendation based off their personal experience with you?

 

[rezeew]

I understand the importance of having a strong academic transcript when applying to grad schools. However, I also understand the fear of having a professor see your transcript and potentially judge you based on it. Each professor has their own biases and may weigh certain aspects of your transcript differently. It's understandable to feel apprehensive about this.

However, I believe it is important to have a professor review your transcript with you, especially if you have any concerns about certain grades or discrepancies. This allows you to address any potential issues and provide context for your grades. It also shows that you are proactive and taking ownership of your academic record.

That being said, I can also understand why some individuals may choose to not have a professor review their transcript. It ultimately depends on your personal comfort level and your relationship with the professor. If you feel that the professor may not be understanding or may negatively impact your LOR, then it may be best to not have them review it.

In any case, it's important to remember that your transcript is just one aspect of your application. Admissions committees will also consider your personal statement, letters of recommendation, and other experiences. So even if you have a weakness in one area, you can still showcase your strengths in other areas. It's important to have a well-rounded application.

In conclusion, while it may be nerve-wracking to have a professor review your transcript, I believe it is still beneficial to do so in order to address any concerns and provide context for your grades. Ultimately, it's up to the individual to decide whether or not to have a professor review their transcript, but it is important to remember that your transcript is just one aspect of your application and does not define your entire academic record.