Hello,
I am looking to apply to mechanical engineering masters programs for the spring of 2020. I graduated magna cum laude with a 3.7 from an average school in 2012.
When I was in undergrad I did not even consider graduate school, and never got any research experience. I also did not form any relationships with professors for LOR, and after this length of time I'm sure they do not remember me.
As I am preparing to apply to programs I am wondering how much of a disadvantage I will be at because of this? I have significant relevant experience/responsibility having worked for a consulting engineering firm for the past 7 years, and I am professionally licensed in several states. I will not have any trouble getting LOR, but they will have to come from clients, other professional engineers, etc.
Should I just use my SOP to focus on my work experience and how I believe it makes me a stronger candidate? And should I bother applying to more competitive schools where I may meet the gpa/gre reqs or do I need to focus on lower tier schools because my application will be lacking?
Thank you for your help