Can I get into Microbiology PhD program with my stats

[Anh Pham]

Hello guys, my name is Anh and I am international student in the US. 

I am wondering whether I can get into Microbiology PhD program (especially in Purdue) with my stats:

 

Double majoring in Biotechnology/Microbiology

GPA in major: Biotechnology 3.80; Microbiology 3.85.

Research experience: 1 year so far (2 years when I graduate). My research topics are Mycobacterium paratuberculosis and Earthoworm symbionts. 

I haven't taken any GRE or TOELF tests yet.

I have 3 professors can write me strong letters recommendation 

I am planning to take them this summer and finish my application before November 2015.

 

I am quite nervous now since many accepted individuals have more than 2 years of research experience.

 

Thank you.

[peachypie]

I apologize that I can't really speak to the international applicant but if you were domestic definitely.  I wouldn't classify Purdue as a highly competitive micro program.  My understanding is that they are decent, if you get an invite to interview you are essentially in.  

[Vene]

Are you getting a bachelors in the US? If so, there's no reason at all why you can't get a PhD in microbiology afterwards. If your bachelors comes from elsewhere contact the program you're interested in and ask them if it's a US equivalent to see if you're still qualified. The tricky part will be that Purdue is a public university and there are more funding opportunities for domestic applicants. It's not that you can't get in, but you may actually have a better shot at a private school for a PhD.

Edited January 5, 2015 by Vene

[Anh Pham]

Yes. I am getting my bachelor degrees in the US. I am not aiming for the top schools since I am not very confident with my grades and experience. One thing I do know is I love doing research and studying microbiology

 

Can you guys recommend me some other schools beside Purdue for Microbiology. I am interested in mid-tier schools. 

Edited January 5, 2015 by Anh Pham

[Dreams of the North]

 

Can you guys recommend me some other schools beside Purdue for Microbiology. I am interested in mid-tier schools. 

 

Others may disagree, but I don't think this is a good way to look at programs. Rather than break up programs into tiers, instead look at what programs have PIs are performing research that interests you. Is there a specific area in microbiology that you are looking at for your research interests? I would suggest talking with your professors and seeing if they know who is turning out good research in these areas.

[UsagiYojimbo]

Others may disagree, but I don't think this is a good way to look at programs. Rather than break up programs into tiers, instead look at what programs have PIs are performing research that interests you. Is there a specific area in microbiology that you are looking at for your research interests? I would suggest talking with your professors and seeing if they know who is turning out good research in these areas.

 

I agree with asking your mentors for suggestions based on your personal research interests. I also agree about not putting too much weight on any particular school's ranking. However, you should consider applying to 2-3 of your "dream schools" even if you think they are too competitive.  There is a fair degree of subjectivity and you can't predict how any individual will perceive your personal statements.

 

If you want to shoot for very competitive programs, you should consider 1-2 years working as a tech full-time in a really good lab on a independent project. Of course this is not always an easy option when visas are involved.