Grad school selection advice
Posted: Sat Feb 21, 2015 1:32 pm
I'm planning to apply to grad schools in December 2015 and I thought I'd start thinking about it now. I'm quite unsure of my chances so I'd like your opinion.
Undergrad institution: Top university in SE Asia, probably not too well known in the US
Undergrad GPA: 3.75/4.00
Graduated in August 2013
Undergrad research: Two semesters of undergrad research in junior year with different groups, honors year project in my senior year (Quantum optics).
LORs: Should be strong, especially those from my condensed matter and quantum optics research supervisors.
GRE: Not taken them yet, but I think I have enough time to prepare and do well.
Misc Stuff: TAed a couple of physics courses, Dean's List etc.
Now, the rather unique stuff. After my undergrad, I got a job in a condensed matter group within my university because I couldn't start my PhD right away due to a complicated situation (not in my control and not my fault either). On the bright side, I published during this time. I have three guaranteed publications (one first author and two third author) and probably a fourth by the time I apply. I also expect to pick up a Masters degree (Masters by research) for my work so far.
I'm interested in Condensed Matter Theory schools in the US. With a profile like this, it's a little unusual so any idea on where I'd fit? Do I have a shot at a top 5 program or should I set my sights a little lower? Thanks!
Undergrad institution: Top university in SE Asia, probably not too well known in the US
Undergrad GPA: 3.75/4.00
Graduated in August 2013
Undergrad research: Two semesters of undergrad research in junior year with different groups, honors year project in my senior year (Quantum optics).
LORs: Should be strong, especially those from my condensed matter and quantum optics research supervisors.
GRE: Not taken them yet, but I think I have enough time to prepare and do well.
Misc Stuff: TAed a couple of physics courses, Dean's List etc.
Now, the rather unique stuff. After my undergrad, I got a job in a condensed matter group within my university because I couldn't start my PhD right away due to a complicated situation (not in my control and not my fault either). On the bright side, I published during this time. I have three guaranteed publications (one first author and two third author) and probably a fourth by the time I apply. I also expect to pick up a Masters degree (Masters by research) for my work so far.
I'm interested in Condensed Matter Theory schools in the US. With a profile like this, it's a little unusual so any idea on where I'd fit? Do I have a shot at a top 5 program or should I set my sights a little lower? Thanks!