Physics Grad School Prospectives

[scisyhphysics]

Hello all,

Just wanted your opinion on my prospectives for grad school. What are some "safety" schools that I should consider? Likewise, what are some schools that I might have a fair chance of getting into? Do I have a chance for schools like MIT/Berkeley/Stanford/Santa Barbara?

I screwed up on the math GRE-will this make a difference? Also, I'm still waiting on my writing score, but it would be best to assume its no better than 4.

GRE scores:
verbal: 590
math: 770
writing: still waiting

Physics: (800 on practice exam under testing conditions, still waiting for results from the real one that I took November)

GPA: 3.45/4.0 (maybe a little higher for physics courses)
from one of the top 20 US Universities

I've taken the following courses:
class mech
undergrad quantum
Adv. E&M
particle physics
thermodynamics
physical chemistry
intro. computational physics
graduate quantum (taking this year)

I've been doing research continually since winter of my sophomore year. I'm currently preparing a paper for publication.

Thanks for your help:)

 

[robphy]

What field are you interested in?
What field is your paper in?
What math courses have you taken? and how did you do?
Do you prefer a big school (with a large physics graduate-student entering class)? or a small one?

 

[Mene]

Hello there,

First of all, congratulations on considering graduate school in physics! It is a challenging but rewarding path to pursue. In terms of safety schools, it is important to research and consider programs that align with your research interests and have a strong faculty in those areas. Some good resources for finding safety schools could be the Physics GRE forum or talking to your current professors for recommendations.

As for your chances at top schools like MIT, Berkeley, Stanford, and Santa Barbara, it is difficult to say without knowing more about your research experience and the specific programs you are applying to. These schools are highly competitive, and it is important to have a strong research background, strong letters of recommendation, and a well-written personal statement to stand out. Your GRE scores are only one aspect of your application, so do not let a lower math score discourage you. If your writing score is also on the lower side, you can make up for it by showcasing your writing skills in your personal statement and research papers.

Your GPA is also an important factor, and a 3.45 is on the lower side for top schools. However, if you have a strong upward trend in your physics courses and can explain any dips in your GPA in your personal statement, it can still work in your favor.

Your course and research experience looks solid, and it is great that you have been involved in research since your sophomore year. Make sure to highlight your research accomplishments and publications in your application.

Overall, it is important to have a well-rounded application and to apply to a mix of safety, match, and reach schools. Best of luck with your applications!