Jump to content

chemistry -> physics, low gpa, retakes at cc, so so many questions...


Recommended Posts

Posted

Hi I am new, and hopefully this is in the right subforum..

 

So I am an applied chemistry (environmental emphasis) major at a big public school. I found out too late that my interests are actually in physics/astronomy/physical chemistry and as such, could not change my major or double. I am currently on a study/intern abroad program, and hopefully after that I'll have something of a 3.2 gpa. I will graduate after this.

 

So, my strong points: 3+ years of chemistry research experience in various fields with two publications (only second though, and in a field I am not interested in) and one poster (also second). Research experience spans 3 different countries at top schools in those countries, experience in activism, volunteering and extracurriculars. Tutored chemistry and math and TAd an introductory astronomy class. Received a scholarship for one of my internships abroad.

 

My transcript is a hot mess now that I have looked at it--took 5 years to graduate, with several pass/no pass option courses (although, several of those classes were only available as P/NP. ie, seminars). I have mostly Bs and one D which I can't make up because it is not offered every year. I got mostly Cs in math (calculus and linear algebra) and have not even taken differential equations.  I have retaken  two classes at university, not because I failed, but because I dropped them due to illness.

 

I have not yet taken the GRE since I plan to take a year off to really examine myself and abilities. Additionally, I hope to work for a year or two in the field. However, I would like to go to graduate school for a master's of physics and then a PhD in astrochemistry after.

 

My question has a few parts...

 

1. I was originally planning on taking classes a community college, to really master some material. For example, I took calculus at a time that I thought I would never use it, and as such, half-assed it and took an easier series. I also need to take differential equations. However, I heard in some situations, retaking classes at a community college can hurt you, even if you do it for reasons such as cost/convenience/self-improvement. What have you heard?

 

2. Any recommendations on what I should do to make myself competitive as a physics graduate school applicant?

 

3. About my retake classes and time it took to graduate--is it worth elaborating? I'm not feeding a sob story, just wondering if my application or interview I should mention it was illness or just leave it be?

 

Thanks, and hope this is the right place to post!

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use