<p>As some of you may remember, I'm planning to apply to Ph.D. programs in biology this fall. Most of these schools are not even in the Top 20, but are still extremely competitive (Top 20-50, let's say). One school I'm interested is actually ranked #100 in Biological Sciences grad programs in US News. This worries me a little. I know US News Ranking doesn't mean much, so I'm wondering why it might fall so short in their eyes. The university is lesser-well known but includes full tuition and a stipend like any other school, and seems just as competitive to get into (I got their stats). </p>
<p>The reason I'm interested in this university is because I found it while doing some research on the work I'm doing. Some of the professors' research seems to line up right with mine. I know there's no such thing as a "safety" school given the competition, but it's tempting to think of this school as one, given it's low rank and obscure prestige. Is it even worth it applying to this program, or should I aim slightly higher?</p>
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<li>3.5-3.6 gpa, 1250-1300 gre, 2 years industry, no publications.</li>
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