Graduate School: Physics PhD Chances for Top 10 Program?

[estedrich]

So... I know nobody will be able to give me a very clear answer to this question, but I was hoping someone out there might be able to give me an idea of how likely I am to get into a top tier physics graduate school (UChicago is my first choice). Anyway, here's all the relevant info about me:

Math & Physics double major (Astrophysics minor but that's pretty insignificant)
GPA of ~3.8 at University of Minnesota, Physics/technical GPA higher than that (maybe ~3.85).
Research experience in an experimental physics lab for 2, 2.5 years, not doing anything groundbreaking though, a lot of making cables and soldering, etc. Strong letter of recommendation from the professor though.
Also, there's a math professor with whom I have taken 3 courses, GPA of ~3.8 over those courses and am currently doing a directed study with, so I believe that I can get a good letter from him. (Is it a problem to have a letter from a math professor?)
For the third letter, I am somewhat at a loss. I had a professor for 3 semesters for introductory physics, but I didn't have a very close relationship with him. He does know me though and we talk from time to time when we see each other.
As to the GRE, I haven't taken it yet, but I am good at taking such tests and anticipate getting a pretty high score. I'll hazard a guess of 750-800 on Math, Reading, and Writing, and maybe 750-850 on the Physics subject test.
I don't know what else to say, really. I am taking a graduate Quantum class this year and a graduate Algebra class too. I've worked as a TA. I am the president of the chess club.

So is it overly optimistic to hope to get into a top 10 physics Ph.D. program? One possible issue is that I am interested in theoretical physics but I have no experience in the field.

Any advice/opinions will be appreciated.

 

[wilsont23274]

Thanks!It is definitely possible to get into a top 10 physics Ph.D. program with your credentials. As long as you have a strong research background and good letters of recommendation, you should be in good shape. Your GRE scores should also help, although the most important factor for admission is usually the research experience and letters of recommendation. In terms of theoretical physics experience, you may want to take a few classes or do some independent study in the area to demonstrate your interest in the field. Good luck!