Will My GPA and Research Experience Get Me Into Top Grad Schools for Physics?

In summary, the individual is a senior looking to apply to grad school for a Ph.D. in physics and has been doing online research on schools with competitive gpas/scores for admitted students. They are concerned about their chances at top schools with a 3.65 GPA and limited research experience. They also mention being shy and unsure about the weight of a recommendation from a professor in the engineering department. They are seeking advice on schools that may be more attainable and wondering how much weight grad schools give to extracurriculars and personal circumstances.
  • #1
bueno1989
4
0
Hey Guys. I'm coming up on my senior year and I am looking to apply to grad school, to receive a Ph.D. in physics. I've been doing a bit of online research, comparing schools and getting an idea of the ranges of gpas/scores for admitted students. After reviewing places that have struck my interest (UC Berkley, Stanford, Colorado-Boulder, Columbia), I am becoming increasingly worried that I will not stand a chance in the applicant pool. Here are my stats, let me know if I have even the slightest of shots:


Penn State University - B.S. physics, B.A. philosophy, minor mathematics

GPA - 3.65 (I am not sure of my phys gpa, but 4.0 in phil)

Research - Materials for photovoltaics (not in phys dept, and I don't think I want to go to grad school for solid state, or anything like that.. thinking more particle/fields?)


I know it is even harder to evaluate my chances without GRE scores, but I am not even sure my GPA as it is will be sufficient for any top 15 school? Also, my intro math and physics grades were not stellar, but my grades are much improved now that I have grasp on things (I started out as a chemistry major...).
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The GPA isn't great but there are many determining factors. How much research did you specifically do? Where are your GRE/PGRE scores? Expect to get good letters of recommendation?
 
  • #3
All-in-all, my research is not too impressive. Thus far, most of my research has consisted of me in the lab mixing chemicals and working with electrochemistry. I have done a bit of characterization (XRD), but not much. Our research group has been in a state-of-transition, and we've had many problems with equipment and such. We have not really succeeding in accomplishing things we set-out to do, so I have pretty much learned to accept failure and that nothing can be gained in research without going through this process, but that's about it.

I know this doesn't sound good, but I am in the process of looking for a group in the physics department that I can a) get excited about, b) learn a lot from, c) produce results. I am staying an extra year, so I will have time to make this switch.

As for GRE scores, I don't have them because I haven't taken them yet...

I am pretty shy, so I am trying to work on getting to know my professors and going to office hours. As of right now, the professor I do research for could certainly write my a good recommendation, however, he is in the engineering department, and I don't know how much his opinion will matter.

I know my gpa isn't perfect, but how do grad schools except people to get A's in everything? I mean, grades (at least at my school) are pretty much determined by final exams, and I have definitely had days where I was in no condition to take a 3hr test and my scores reflect that... But overall, my gpa is basically an A- average.. why is that so terrible? Will schools take into account that although my gpa isn't a 4.0, I also work 20+ hours a week? Do schools even consider extracurriculars when looking over applications?

That was sort of a long-winded response, but I feel like I never get honest answers for these kind of questions.

If places like Berkley and Columbia seem way far out of reach, do you have any suggestions on schools that may be more obtainable?
 
  • #4
bueno1989 said:
I know my gpa isn't perfect, but how do grad schools except people to get A's in everything? I mean, grades (at least at my school) are pretty much determined by final exams, and I have definitely had days where I was in no condition to take a 3hr test and my scores reflect that...

They don't. My undergraduate GPA was lower than yours and I got into somewhere reasonable. If you have o.k. recommendations, then I think you will be able to get in somewhere.

The standard reference for these sorts of things is the AIP Guide (http://www.aip.org/pubs/books/graduate.html [Broken]) which they have put partly online. at http://www.gradschoolshopper.com/

Also look at the authors for the papers that you are interested into see where they study.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #5
bueno1989 said:
All-in-all, my research is not too impressive. Thus far, most of my research has consisted of me in the lab mixing chemicals and working with electrochemistry. I have done a bit of characterization (XRD), but not much. Our research group has been in a state-of-transition, and we've had many problems with equipment and such. We have not really succeeding in accomplishing things we set-out to do, so I have pretty much learned to accept failure and that nothing can be gained in research without going through this process, but that's about it.
Graduate schools don't expect you to have an exceptionally stellar research background. What they are looking for is students who are willing to make a commitment of doing 5+ years of research in their chosen area of specialisation. The problems that you have described above are typical of any area of experimental physics. For any new research group, it is natural to experience some teething problems and you are certain to encounter more of them when you start your graduate studies in any other university. The important thing is what you have learned from these experiences and how they will help you in your future research.
I am pretty shy, so I am trying to work on getting to know my professors and going to office hours. As of right now, the professor I do research for could certainly write my a good recommendation, however, he is in the engineering department, and I don't know how much his opinion will matter.
Why should you be shy to ask for recommendations? In most cases, Profs ask for your CV and SOP before writing a recommendation. If they are familiar with your work, then they will write a good LOR and yes, their opinions will matter during admission consideration.
I know my gpa isn't perfect, but how do grad schools except people to get A's in everything? I mean, grades (at least at my school) are pretty much determined by final exams, and I have definitely had days where I was in no condition to take a 3hr test and my scores reflect that... But overall, my gpa is basically an A- average.. why is that so terrible? Will schools take into account that although my gpa isn't a 4.0, I also work 20+ hours a week? Do schools even consider extracurriculars when looking over applications?
Applicants are not judged on their GPA alone, although a consistent academic performance is a winning point. No one said your grades are terrible, it is just that top ranking programmes have a very large pool of competent applicants for very few spots. So you have to be realistic and apply to mid or lower ranking programmes as well. As it has been said many times on this forum, there is very little difference in the quality of research in top-ranked schools and lower-ranked schools in US.
 
  • #6
Your grades are OK for an applicant, but without much research you probably don't have a very good shot at the schools you mentioned. I had a higher GPA, 4 REUs, and publications, and I didn't get into those schools. Pick some more mid-range schools to apply to as well.
 
  • #7
I'd be very worried. If you don't get into a top 20 school, your life is essentially over.
 
  • #8
I am certainly looking at other schools, no doubt. It's just unfortunate that the schools I mentioned above are in locations that I am very interested in living in. I don't think that my life will be over if I don't get into the most prestige school, I was just curious if it would even be worth my time trying.
 
  • #9
I'd say it's worth applying. Not that I'm in some position to know, I just finished applying to grad school last week. The school in my ideal location happens to be Cornell. I already got rejected for undergrad there. The chances of me getting in are essentially zero but why not apply?
 
  • #10
Phyisab**** said:
I'd be very worried. If you don't get into a top 20 school, your life is essentially over.

You're kidding, of course.
 
  • #11
bueno1989 said:
Hey Guys. I'm coming up on my senior year and I am looking to apply to grad school, to receive a Ph.D. in physics. I've been doing a bit of online research, comparing schools and getting an idea of the ranges of gpas/scores for admitted students. After reviewing places that have struck my interest (UC Berkley, Stanford, Colorado-Boulder, Columbia), I am becoming increasingly worried that I will not stand a chance in the applicant pool. Here are my stats, let me know if I have even the slightest of shots:Penn State University - B.S. physics, B.A. philosophy, minor mathematics

GPA - 3.65 (I am not sure of my phys gpa, but 4.0 in phil)

Research - Materials for photovoltaics (not in phys dept, and I don't think I want to go to grad school for solid state, or anything like that.. thinking more particle/fields?)I know it is even harder to evaluate my chances without GRE scores, but I am not even sure my GPA as it is will be sufficient for any top 15 school? Also, my intro math and physics grades were not stellar, but my grades are much improved now that I have grasp on things (I started out as a chemistry major...).

If you score in the 700-800s for the PGREs, I think you have a good shot at getting into at least one the schools just below the elite schools, such as Washington, UC San Diego, Texas-Austin, etc. Texas accepts about 50% of domestic applicants
 

1. How do I choose the right graduate program for me?

Choosing the right graduate program can be a daunting task, but there are some key factors to consider. First, think about your interests and career goals and find programs that align with them. You should also research the faculty and their areas of expertise, as well as the curriculum and resources available. Additionally, consider the location and cost of the program. It's important to find a program that not only fits your academic needs, but also your personal and financial needs.

2. What are the requirements for graduate school?

The requirements for graduate school vary depending on the program and university, but there are some common requirements. Most programs will require a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, letters of recommendation, transcripts, standardized test scores (such as the GRE), and a personal statement or essay. Some programs may also require a resume, writing sample, or portfolio. Be sure to carefully review the requirements for each program you are interested in to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria.

3. How important are grades for getting into grad school?

Grades are certainly an important factor in the graduate school admissions process, but they are not the only factor. Admissions committees also consider test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and research or work experience. Additionally, some programs may place more emphasis on certain aspects, such as research experience for science programs. It's important to have a strong overall application, not just a high GPA.

4. Do I need research experience to get into grad school?

Research experience is not always a requirement for graduate school, but it can certainly strengthen your application. Many graduate programs, especially in the sciences, place a high value on research experience as it shows your ability to conduct independent research and contribute to your field. However, if you do not have research experience, you can still showcase your skills and interests in other ways, such as through internships or relevant coursework.

5. When is the best time to apply for grad school?

The best time to apply for grad school can vary depending on the program, but generally it is recommended to apply at least 6-12 months before the start of the program. This will give you enough time to prepare your application materials and ensure they are submitted before the deadline. Some programs may have rolling admissions, so it's important to check the specific deadlines for each program. It's also a good idea to start researching and preparing for graduate school at least a year in advance to give yourself enough time to make informed decisions and strengthen your application.

Similar threads

  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
26
Views
1K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
681
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
3
Views
806
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
18
Views
2K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
3
Views
708
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
7
Views
229
Replies
15
Views
1K
Back
Top