abandoned

Yeah, I have seen plenty of ranking for journals, with all sorts of metrics, but was unsure where the dividing line between a so called "A" and "B" publication really falls.

I reject acceptance. Leave me alone already!

Since you are targeting only the very top programs I think you will need a well rounded application. To be considered you should have good math prep: [Cal I, II, and III, linear algebra, diff. eq.s, and real analysis]. You should have strong GRE scores (new equivalent of 770+Q and 620+V) you need letters of recommendation and ideally some econ related research experience. You will also need a convincing statement of purpose that explains why the interest in economics with a non-economics background. If you were applying to lower ranked programs these criterion would be more relaxed but the pool of qualified applicants for the top 10-20 programs is pretty good.

Well - that sucks. But there's nothing you can do now but watch the clock.

Here's my opinion 1. I wouldn't let lack of results discourage you. As an undergraduate, your potential is not basedon what you produce so much as your process. How do you approach research: do you ask good questions, find some way to test your ideas, execute in an orderly fashion, etc. Your professionaism (showing up, foillowing through, wiriting up results, critiquing ideas, etc.) demonstrates your abilities. Show ambition, curiosity, good technique, etc. 2. The second problemis harder. As an older, non-raditional student, I see that younger students often don't yet have the interpesonal skills, or the confidence (or the diesire?) to make themselves visible. Yes, you need to have some one-on-one time with professors to get really good LORs. That's a reality. You would find however that professors would be open to more time if you are good. If you ask an insightful question, show real desire, etc. As a whole (of course there are exceptions), these guys know the game and have seen hundreds of students come and go. So they know a good one when the see one. But taking this shot has risk - so if you go for more one on one time be prepared with something that will help your cause.

Yes, there are many programs friendly to non-economics, but none that are friendly to non-mathematics. It also strikes me that you have a pretty fuzzy idea of what you want to study as there is a big difference in "something related to international economy, welfare, development or maybe behavioral economics" --- which won't sound very convincing to an ad comm reviewing your SOP. You might want to sharpen your focus. Most Ph.D. applicants to top programs have a pretty good idea what they want to pursue and you will be at a disadvantage.

I hear that journals are divided into "A" publications, "B" publications, etc. I have seen rankings by field (e.g. for me, economics and business publications) based on various factors (citations, influence factor, etc.) Is there a strict definition of "A" publications? Where do I find such a list if one exists for business (marketing) and economics publications.

I was thinking of getting a tattoo of a QR Code. When scanned, you go to a web site where I can change the message/image.

Also "forthcoming" means accepted and "in press"

I am just over 50, though I went back to school not that long ago and got my BA (economics, summa cum laude), then MA (economics, grad GPA 3.73) and now applying to Ph.D. programs in econ and marketing. I am interested in behavioral economics. My limitation is that I cannot apply to schools that are very far from my home in Ohio as I have a lot of family commitments. Having recent coursework (especially in mathematics, and economics) has eliminated the problem of old grades. MY GRE scores were good - though not perfect. But I notice that for a 50 year old guy my scores are off the charts... just not compared with 23 year old male Asian math students. I have done independent research in the past 2 years as well, and presented at some conferences. I also was asked to teach at my previous school (principles of econ classes) -- I think those two things really helped my application. They also helped me get some really strong letters of recommendation from my professors who know me not just as a student, but researcher and teacher. They all put together detailed, personalized letters for me. But I am worried about ageism... I will know by March 15th.