Get into non prestiguos graduate program from a non prestiguos undergrad?

rekishiotaku
Mon, 30 Jul 2012 16:46:48 +0000

Its entirely possible to get into an Ivy League graduate program from a non prestigious undergrad school.
I went to community college where I was more or less a C average student until my last few semesters there when I really focused. I then went to UCSD which as far as Asian history is concerned is not top tier I would say. And now I am going to Columbia University.

It really all depends on the field you want to get into and the research you can or prove that you can do. Another huge thing is letter of rec. In my case 2 of my 4 letters were from professors who studied at and knew people at Columbia. Although since for the MA program I believe the dean of admissions makes the decision not the professors so that’s arguable how much that helped. But it certainty didn’t hurt.

If you are in high school now, I’d say nothing is cast in stone. You really don’t need to make a move until your last two years as an undergrad. But in those 2 years I’d say try to do independent study classes with professors that may have connections, not only will it give you possible letters of rec, but also good advice on where to apply. Also contact professors at the place you want to go. Kiss some butt, tell them how you liked their books, and how you want to do similar research.
Another huge thing is statement of purpose, and your sample essay.
GRE scores I dont feel are very important, just try not to blow them. Some schools do have a minimum cut off, Berkley is one I believe, but for many schools the GRE only helps your application, if you score average, I don’t think it hurts it.