Do I have a chance?

[Robyn1030]

Hello,

 

I am looking for some honest opinions.  I am applying to a PhD program in Social Policy.  Below is my profile:

 

Undergrad:  3.65 GPA.  Major - Social Work, Minor - Psychology.  Dean's list 7 out of 8 semesters.  2 honors societies.  Graduated Magna Cum Laude.
 

Law School:  2.81 GPA - I know, not great.  However, my law school has a horrible grading curve (2.7!).  For what it's worth, I made Dean's List 2 of the 3 years.  I also had 2 great internships and did a year-long clinic.

 

GRE:  V - 1.59 (81%); Q - 149 (37%) (I know, I suck at math!); AW - 4.5 (78%).

Work experience:  Over 5 years experience as an attorney working in law and policy.  Currently working for federal government.

 

Research experience:  Conducted 2 independent studies (1 with funding) in undergrad.  Recently authored 445-page policy report that has gained international attention.  Also authored several articles for professional journals.

 

LORs:  3 LORs - former social work professor, former law school professor, current supervisor.

 

SOP:  I think it's pretty good

 

Do I have a chance???

Edited January 5, 2014 by rmp1030

[MPPgal]

You need to get that quant up, especially for a PhD, you need at least a 155 (and that is if everything else is perfect) I recommend at least a 160 or above and your verbal needs to be higher if you are arguing the i suck at math but Im great at analytical

[Jufarius87]

Respectfully, Why do you want this if you are bad at math? Social/Public Policy schools use alot of statistics in research and many of the topics overlap with applied economics.

[ferd]

I think the quantitative score will be tough - do you have a list of programs you applied to? Chances are they all emphasize empirical work and quantitative techniques. What's motivating your search for a PhD in social policy?

[Robyn1030]

Thanks for your feedback.  I am only applying to one program, so we shall see. 

[MPAallday]

I would apply to more than a singular program if you can. It's hard to predict stats that a mixture of good and bad. Overall, you look like a competitive candidate.