How should I word a justification for my grades?

[scientist410]

Hello all,

 

I'm a second year biological sciences student and have been contacting professors in hopes of getting a summer research position but my main issue is my GPA which is 3.067. I have already been rejected by one professor because of it and I was wondering if any of you had some tips on how I can maybe add an extra blurb or something when I send my unofficial transcripts to the other two professors that are still considering me (hopefully). Please note I'm not trying to sound manipulative or trying to be above what I got in terms of grades just seeing if there's something I can add to make me seem less 'dumb' for lack of a better word.

 

Thanks

[peachypie]

Well, you may want to start with why you have that GPA.  Is there a reason?  Any way you can highlight how you may not have done great in courses but you can apply knowledge and work well in the lab?  

[Crucial BBQ]

Generally when you show your transcript it is to show that you have the minimal background required to participate.  My GPA in my second year was lower than yours and I had no problem.  I have a persistent personality, though, and did hear no a lot.  A professor tells me no, I move on to the next. I heard "no" from every biology prof at my first university.  I then went to the Chemistry Department, where I got an RA position.  

 

I cold-called on most of my experiences.  I basically went to office hours, mentioned I had an interest in their research, said I wanted experiences for graduate school, and that I was willing to volunteer if need be.  I didn't wait for positions to be posted.  

 

I didn't say anything about my GPA, I focused on my enthusiasm to help with research.  

[scientist410]

Generally when you show your transcript it is to show that you have the minimal background required to participate.  My GPA in my second year was lower than yours and I had no problem.  I have a persistent personality, though, and did hear no a lot.  A professor tells me no, I move on to the next. I heard "no" from every biology prof at my first university.  I then went to the Chemistry Department, where I got an RA position.  

 

I cold-called on most of my experiences.  I basically went to office hours, mentioned I had an interest in their research, said I wanted experiences for graduate school, and that I was willing to volunteer if need be.  I didn't wait for positions to be posted.  

 

I didn't say anything about my GPA, I focused on my enthusiasm to help with research.  

 

That's really helpful to hear, thanks!

[lab ratta-tat-tat]

Sop are very restrictive in word limit as is. I was told by adcom members to not waste that word space highlighting your flaws. Highlight all the positive attributes instead.