researchguru85

Thanks for starting this thread, sociologyreader1. I will be applying to about 7-8 schools this fall. I'm taking the GRE early next month, so I may have to adjust my current list based on my scores. Anonymona -- I don't think your list is small at all. Just apply to the schools that you feel the strongest connections too. Those application fees add up quickly, so I think a smaller list works out the best (as long as you are not leaving out any programs that you feel strongly about).

Thank you all for your wonderful advice. I will definitely take everyone's advice about tailoring my SOP to heart. More specifically, the parts about emphasizing fit on my application. You guys have been so great! All of your insightful and supportive comments have really boosted my confidence in applying to PhD programs! Chris Bosh the Dinosaurman -- I'll look into Penn State. I'll PM you about your SOP suggestions about tailoring my SOP to the faculty of the program. Maleficent99 -- I will be sure to begin with the "fit" section. What great advice! xdarthveganx -- Thank you much for the format that you used on your SOP -- that helps so much. I'll PM you.

Thank you for all of your feedback! I should probably give you a little more information about my background. My interests are in assimilation among Caribbean immigrant families. As for schools, I am currently looking at Irvine, UCLA, SUNY and CUNY. Also, my research experience is primarily in psychology (one of them is social psychology). Gingin6789 -- I will take yuour great advice and begin dusting off my research papers from the independeant projects to use as writing samples. I may take Turbodream's advice and retake the GRE to try and boost my AW score. Turbodream -- I'm interested in applying to both UC Davis and UC Irvine. Could I ask you some questions about their programs?

Thank you for your insightful reply, juilletmercredi. I have a professional Master’s degree. Will that affect the impact/importance of the graduate gpa? Also, my research experience is in psychology. So, I think that should be OK? In terms of my research interests, you hit it! My interests are in ethnicity assimilation among Caribbean immigrant families. As for schools, I am currently looking at Irvine, UCLA, SUNY and CUNY. Would you suggest that I retake the GRE given my low GPA? Thanks again!

Bump!

Hi, I was wondering if I could get some feedback of my chances of getting into a Top 35 Sociology PhD program. Also, do you have any suggestions for Soc programs that I can apply to given my research interests? My stats: Undergraduate gpa (6 yrs ago): Overall - 2.94. Major: (Sociology) - 3.5 Graduate gpa: 3.45 -Two Sociology independent research projects in undergrad (received an 'A' in both) -Three research assistant positions: One in underad; two in graduate school. None of these research experiences are in Sociology. -GRE: 168 V; 156 Q; 4.5 Analytical Writing Research interests: Immigration (primarily new immigrants and thei second-generation children), identity formation, nationalism, race/ethnicity, gender Your advice is very much appreciated! Thanks!

Hi, I was wondering if I could get some feedback of my chances of getting into a Top 35 Sociology PhD program. Also, do you have any suggestions for Soc programs that I can apply to given my research interests? My stats: Undergraduate gpa (6 yrs ago): Overall - 2.94. Major: (Sociology) - 3.5 Graduate gpa: 3.45 -Two Sociology independent research projects in undergrad (received an 'A' in both) -Three research assistant positions: One in underad; two in graduate school. None of these research experiences are in Sociology. -GRE: 168 V; 156 Q; 4.5 Analytical Writing Research interests: Immigration (primarily new immigrants and thei second-generation children), identity formation, nationalism, race/ethnicity, gender Your advice is very much appreciated! Thank you!