Top Environmental Programs Chances?

[sciteach]

I'd like to know my chances of being accepted into Duke, Indiana, Yale, UCSB, etc.

A little about me...

BS double science major (environmental-related)

Overall GPA 3.6 (last two years 3.8)

Calc and Econ classes, one Policy class

A lot of professional experience, but not specifically in environmental policy:

-2 years science research

-2 years community health

-Teach for America (2 years teaching science)

-3 additional years teaching science

-summer environmental research while teaching

I haven't taken the GRE yet. I'm assuming my scores will be good, but not exceptional (not great at taking standardized tests).

Given this information and assuming my scores are good, does anyone have any insight? Your advice would be greatly appreciated.

[cunninlynguist]

I don't think you'll encounter any problems. The top programs - I'm applying to those 4, as well as Michigan SNRE - all have similar stats in terms of admitted students (3.5 GPA and 1200+ GRE). Your GPA exceeds that and I imagine you'll do well enough on the GRE.

You'll be able to parlay your experience into serious consideration, even if it's not directly related to environmental policy (after all, it's difficult to find "experience" for our field before grad school anyway, especially if your undergrad education doesn't match perfectly).

The one minor deficiency may be a lack of undergraduate course work in policy and/or political science courses. I doubt it'll affect your application much, however; write an excellent and focused SOP and that should allay any concerns the admissions committees may have about your knowledge regarding policy. Fortunately, environmental policy is interdisciplinary by nature, as are the programs themselves. Your majors seem to provide a thorough foundation for the science elements of graduate coursework, which will be a bonus.

Keep us updated on the GRE - when are you taking it? My score wasn't "exceptional" (1240; 85th percentile on the verbal and 60th on the quant) - I took it during finals week on the designated study day after preparing for it during the semester, not during the summer like a lot of people. However, it's still very good and generally if you cross the 1200 barrier you'll be competitive for admission and some fellowships.

[sciteach]

Thanks for the advice! I'm actually planning on applying next year, so I'll probably take the GRE next spring or summer. That way, I'll have adequate time to study and break the 1200 barrier (and maybe take a policy course or two). Good luck with your applications!