Current Math Grad School Preparation

[mathgradhopef]

Would I be able to get into a grad school for applied math?

By the time I graduate, I would must likely have a 3.4-3.5 gpa in my upper div math classes (around 3.5-3.6 if lower div classes are included) and a 3.6 overall. Currently, I have a 3.1 gpa in my upper div math classes (around 3.2 if lower div math classes are included) and a 3.38 overall. My university is a top 25 undergrad and in the top 50 of math grad schools.

Classes I've taken so far:
Lower Div:
Calculus II A-
Calculus III B+
Linear Algebra B

Upper Div:
Intro to Probability Theory: C
Number Theory (Withdrew)
Statistics B+
Ordinary Differential Equations (Dynamical Systems) A

I will take Analysis I, Analysis II, Advanced Linear Algebra, a reading course on Dynamical Systems using a grad text (Guckenheimer and Holmes), Abstract Algebra (on my last semester), and possibly 1-3 grad courses (such as grad Numerical Analysis, grad Real Analysis, or another grad courses). If possible, I might be taking Complex Analysis online through University of Wisconsin and an Engineering Math Course (on PDEs) at my university.

Research Experience:
Summer 2010 REU in Mathematical Biology- created research project, which was presented in undergrad research poster presentation at the Joint Math Meetings
Planned- Undergrad senior thesis on ODEs/Dynamical Systems (either applied or theoretical based) with professor during Spring 2012
Planned- Hopefully, will participate in Summer 2012 REU or taking grad courses through SMI in Italy or through AARMS in Canada.
Hopefully, I can publish my senior thesis in an undergrad research journal and present a potential, future REU project at a research conference.

Awards:
Bank of America Scholarship Recipient
Scholarship through my university
Received travel funding from the MAA to fly to the Joint Math Meetings

Currently, I will be taking Analysis I P/NP at Berkeley during the summer to prepare for Analysis at my university during the Fall. The professor teaching Analysis I at my university during the Fall gave me my lowest math grade. I'm a bit rusty at writing proofs, so that is why I will be Analysis I at Berkeley during the summer.

I am mainly interested in Mathematical Biology and Ordinary Differential Equations, but I am open to other subfields of applied math.

Do I have a chance of getting into an Applied Math PhD program at universities, such as Boston University, Texas A&M, or even Duke and Utah for Fall 2013 admission?

 

[Vanadium 50]

I think it's too early to tell. I don't consider Diffy Q as upper division, which leaves you with three classes: a B+, a C and a W. Work on getting good marks in the upcoming classes.

 

[mathgradhopef]

The upper division Ordinary Differential Equations Class I took analyzed phase planes, bifurcations, and other techniques for nonlinear differential equations. The text for the class was for advanced undergrads and first year grad students.

Earlier, I took Linear Algebra and Differential Equations, which covered vector spaces and separable differential equations.

 

[Vanadium 50]

OK, up the 3 to 3.5. It's still too early.

 

[Matrix0]

Based on the information provided, it is difficult to accurately assess your chances of getting into a specific grad school for applied math. Admissions decisions are based on a variety of factors, including GPA, coursework, research experience, and letters of recommendation. While your current GPA may be on the lower side, your overall upward trend and strong performance in upper division math classes may work in your favor. Additionally, your research experience and involvement in the math community through conferences and scholarships demonstrate a strong commitment to the field. It will also be beneficial to continue taking challenging courses, such as graduate level courses, to show your readiness for a PhD program. Ultimately, the admissions committee will consider your entire application and make a decision based on a holistic evaluation. It is important to highlight your strengths and address any potential weaknesses in your application materials. Best of luck in your graduate school journey.