liastra Posted November 22, 2013 Share Posted November 22, 2013 I'm a 2nd year PhD student and I'm basically failing a class I'm taking (like 2nd to last place in the class). I spoke with the professor and the possibility of me getting a C in the class is absolutely real (I'd have to get an A on the final just to get a B-). How much does a C in one of my courses actually hurt me, other than people saying "it means you failed"? I know I have to maintain a 3.0 GPA in the program to stay here (I have a 3.6 currently, so I have some buffer) and I know my program doesn't force you to retake it (and most PIs say you shouldn't cause its a waste of time). I know also that you're required to provide grades when you apply for a post-doc Fellowship, but I don't plan to do a post-doc (I wanna go straight to industry). SO, my question is what does a 'C' actually mean?? (Other than that I'm an idiot). What are the real-life consequences for my career in grad school? Thanks! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
scienceowl Posted November 22, 2013 Share Posted November 22, 2013 Do you plan to apply for any pre-doctoral fellowships? You usually need to submit transcripts for those, so it could matter in that case. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TakeruK Posted November 22, 2013 Share Posted November 22, 2013 I think the only real place it will matter is the fellowships where your transcripts will be required. Otherwise, it probably won't matter unless your GPA gets low enough to be a concern for any advancement in your program (candidacy etc.) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tall Chai Latte Posted December 1, 2013 Share Posted December 1, 2013 I got a C in one of my required courses during 2nd year too. I guess it will bar me from applying for pre-doctoral fellowships and scholarships, but other than that, no real harm so far. My program had me retake that course before my preliminary exam, I passed the second time with a B+ and got through the prelim just fine. I also heard that some PIs check transcripts of prospective postdocs, but I don't know how much does that play into hiring decisions. Grades aren't the only thing that gets looked at on a fellowship application. Your PI's track record plays a role as well, so even if you have straight A's and great research proposal, you still may or may not win the fellowship. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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