M.S./Ph.D. in Physics: Seeking Advice After Low GPA

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The discussion centers on an individual seeking to re-enter graduate school after facing challenges in a previous Ph.D. program, resulting in a terminal M.S. degree. They express concerns about their low GPA, difficulty obtaining references, and the implications of pursuing a third master's degree. Suggestions include gaining relevant experience by working in a university lab to secure letters of recommendation and addressing the reasons for past academic struggles in their application. The importance of demonstrating capability and readiness for graduate studies is emphasized, as admissions committees will likely question the potential for success in a new program.
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In 2004, I finished a joint B.S./M.S. at a decent state school did well (3.8/3.4 GPA). That summer, I started a Ph.D. program and had several issues. The school made a note of the issues (among them a low GPA) and gave me a terminal M.S. degree in 2009.

I'd like to try again and show places that I am capable of doing well in a graduate program, but I'm not sure of the steps to take. It has been a long time, and I cannot get good references. There are a couple of lower-tier state schools that offer admission to their M.S. programs without having to supply letters, but this would be my third master's degree! Getting a job has been difficult because of low GPA and time since graduation. If anyone could offer advice, I'd greatly appreciate it!
 
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Is it possible to find work in a lab at a university near you in order to get some letters of recommendation?
 
Why do you think grad school will be different this time? That's what they will be asking, and that's what your application needs to show.
 

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