Am I in good shape for graduate school?

pme3333
Thu, 14 May 2020 22:58:56 +0000

First and foremost, thank you all @collegemom3717 @bluebayou @MWolf for your invaluable insight! I have read your responses numerous times and did some personal self-reflection and I honestly agree with most if not, all that you have said. I understand, in some respects now from what you each have said, the amount of effort and time it will take to accomplish a feat like obtaining a PhD, especially from some of the best and most renowned universities in the US. I realize for numerous reasons I am at a disadvantage but I assure you, I know a PhD is definitely the right end goal for me. I love research and it’s something I could see myself doing and committing to for 4 or 5 or honestly however long it will take me to achieve it.

With that said though, it is definitely possible doing my PhD following my undergrad may not be the best decision for me. Interestingly enough, I actually started looking at pre-doctoral programs last night (one of which was columbia) and found some great programs, with great professors that I could see me learning more skills that would only benefit me more prior to going to graduate school. With two years left of my undergrad, I will continue to conduct research at my home institute and apply to grad preview programs to see which departments and under which faculty I could see myself being the most successful. Ultimately, I will likely apply to both pre-doctoral and grad programs my senior year and when the time comes, make the decision I feel best suits me and my future.

Thank you all again for your time and willingness to share your wealth of knowledge in the graduate school realm. Stay safe and health!