2020 Biostats w/ Unconventional Background Advice

[sigmaenigma]

Undergrad Institution: Top 40 public 
Major(s):  Biology
GPA: 3.86 (at school known for grade deflation)

Type of Student: White male
 

GRE General Test: 
Have not taken yet, but practice test indicates 174Q, 172V

 

Relevant Courses: Calc III (A), Linear Algebra (B),  Biostatistics (A), Human Genetics (A), Genomics and Applied Bioinformatics (A), Python Programming (A)

Programs Applying: Biostatistics PhD, Biostatistics MS, MPH w/ Biostats Concentration

 

Research Experience: Two semesters of research in statistical analysis for mental health,  summer internship with the DoD writing software

Work Experience:  Summer internship doing policy analysis with a state behavioral health department

Awards/Honors/Recognitions: Multiple institute-wide awards for service and leadership, a publication in a local journal (not research related), numerous oral presentations to the public on extracurricular work 
Extracurriculars: Probably the most unique part of my application. I've organized a national conference for college mental health that involved 1.5 years of independent research and qualitative analysis. I have an extensive record in mental health advocacy and leadership overall. 

Letters of Recommendation: 1 from a current faculty member who I've taken several classes with and currently do research under, 1 from my work experience advisor, and the other is kinda up in the air. I know schools typically look for letters of rec from faculty members, but I would like to submit one from the Dean of Students or Counseling Center Director who can directly speak to my work ethic and ability to identify areas of research. 
 

I have considered waiting until the next application cycle to buff up my math background and research experience. My biggest concern is lack of mathematical background and relevant research necessary to get into top MS/PhD programs. My current intent is to focus my application on convincing the adcom that my potential to conduct research and non-teachable skills make up for my weaker math background.

 

Is my application strong enough currently to get into top programs or is it worth waiting until next application cycle and padding out my resume?

[Stat Assistant Professor]

Your math background is a bit too light for PhD programs, but you could most likely get into an MS program with your current profile. What are your ultimate career goals? Academia, industry, etc.? If the type of work you see yourself doing requires only a Masters, then I'd just apply directly to Masters programs.

For PhD admissions to top PhD programs in Biostat (and even lower ranked ones), evidence of mathematical ability is very important. You certainly need to take more math, including at the very minimum an intro to proofs class and at least one semester of real analysis. Taking undergrad Calculus-based probability and theoretical statistics, as well as proof-based linear algebra, may also be helpful (and doing well in an upper division Linear Algebra class would also mitigate the B you got in the lower-division LA class).

[sigmaenigma]

I intend on pursuing a career in industry or government. I don't believe a PhD is required for either; however, I would imagine it makes you more competitive for higher positions. What MS programs do you think I would be competitive for?

[bstat95]

As a former applicant (biostats, MS), I think you have a good shot at most top10 MS programs (UMich, UNC, Columbia, Minnesota,...just to name a few). I also believe you have a decent chance of getting into one of the top3s (Harvard, JHU, UW). I did not have a strong math background as well and had zero research experiences, but got into one of the top3s and most top10s. I agree with Stat Postdoc that you should take more math courses to boost your application. Having more math can increase your chances of getting into top MS and perhaps a few decent PhD programs. 

[BL250604]

As always, I agree with @Stat PhD Now Postdoc. I would be most concerned about your mathematical ability and lack of rigorous math classes. An introductory proofs class, at the very least, would make you more competitive. I can't speak directly to Biostats (as I was a stats applicant), but analysis I (and maybe II) would definitely be important, in my mind. I think taking some classes (over the summer and during the year) to bolster your mathematical background would be your best shot, then consider applying in the next cycle. 

For a masters, I think that your profile is pretty competitive. Whatever you choose to do, you will certainly be successful. 

[cyberwulf]

As others have said, you need to take more math. You got a 'B' in one of the two most advanced math classes you've taken (LA), which is going to raise some red flags regarding whether or not you'll be able to navigate more rigorous coursework. Also, unfortunately, you won't get a lot of credit for your organizational and leadership work. Not because it's not important, but because it's difficult to gauge the extent of any individual applicant's involvement in such extracurricular activities.