Top Grad Program with Sucky GPA?

ninapendamaishi
Fri, 19 Dec 2008 04:09:44 +0000

So, I’ve got 2 semesters of college left, majoring in Anthropology and Environmental Studies.

I think I will graduate with kind of a lame GPA, maybe around 3.0, from a top private college. I was sick on and off for awhile with mono, so that’s part of it. My GPA in my primary major is higher, will be maybe 3.3-3.5. Additionally, I doubt I’ll want a PhD. I’m thinking more working for a few years, then going back for a masters in Environmental Non-Profit Mgmt or Journalism or some such thing. (all very hypothetical at this point, of course…)

But, I would like to go to a top school, since grad school is expensive and the ranking of the school you go to determines your chances of getting a good job.

So anyway, I’m thinking I’d have maybe overall 3.0 GPA, a couple years work experience plus Peace Corp, high GRE scores (I did very well on the SAT and I heard the GREs are similar), and maybe some research experience/publications. I’m also a good essay writer.

Would that give me a chance?

Anyone know anything about the Yale School of Forestry, for instance (I know they say the average GPA for admitted masters candidates is 3.45)?

Does taking a few classes after you’ve earned a degree and getting As in them help? Because if I was going to an easier school I know I’d be getting As…