intrepid_atom

JimMech, I'm certain that my work-exp is useful when I start doing my research. If profs share the same view, as you say, then it will improve my chances of getting an admit. Thanks.

Thanks much, UnlikelyGrad. Sorry for the delayed response, I just got back from vacation. I've one more question: How much do professors care about relevant work experience when they make admission decisions? I talked to a PhD in EE, he says work-exp has little value when it comes to a PhD admit. That's heartbreaking since I've put so much into my job for almost 4 years and running. I hope it's at least useful in carrying out my research, especially when it comes to implementing an idea in hardware (since I know a thing or 2 about building a chip that works). What do you think? Thanks again.

Please let me know if you need more information or clarification on anything. Thanks.

Dear people, First off, let me thank you for your time. I'm planning to apply for PhD in Electrical Engineering (Fall 2011). Research interest : computer architecture. I did MS-EE in a US university. Focus area: IC Design I'm worried about the following: 1. I don't have any publications or patents. Is this the most under-rated ascpect of a grad application? 2. My GRE AWA is 4.0 (47 pcile). Could this be a show-stopper since writing is really important in a doctoral curriculum? 3. My GPA in MS is 3.5 which is a minimum requirement for almost all schools. The rest of my credentials are not off the charts, but I'm not as worried. * My GRE: verbal = 640, quant = 800 (both >90 pcile) * I did related thesis in MS and my thesis adviser's recommendation would be strong. * Worked full-time in the US for the last 4 yrs as a logic design engineer in one of world's top 5 chip makers. Involved in architecture/design/verification of 2 top-selling chips. Instrumental in the design of a ubiquitous audio processor based chip. * Strong recommendations from my supervisors in industry. Can you guys please comment on my chances to get into these schools? Stanford U Texas-Austin U Maryland-College Park North Carolina State U-Raleigh U California-Irvine U Colorado-Boulder I've done a lot of research in selecting the schools. These schools have very strong comp architecuture research programs. I'll be ecstatic if I can get 1 admit out of 6 applications, I'll buy you all beers Thanks again for your time.