GPA versus Experience

[annie a]

Hi,

Applying to the Columbia University School of Social Work with a very low undergrad GPA of 2.77, however I have an MPH where I redeemed myself earning a 3.5.

Any thoughts on how much this low undergrad GPA will hurt me? I also have loads of experience, including three years working overseas on refugee issues.

Thank you!

[tem11]

I'd imagine that your recent Master's level work will be more important to them than your undergrad GPA. Plus you have a great deal of experience, and international experience at that! I was accepted to Columbia's MSW for Fall 2010 and although I have no idea what exactly they're looking for, I'd be more than happy to shell out some stats regarding my academic history if you think that will be helpful.

I wouldn't stress too much about it. Just make your personal statement as strong as you can and make sure you have solid letters of recommendation.

[AmandaRegina]

Hi,

Applying to the Columbia University School of Social Work with a very low undergrad GPA of 2.77, however I have an MPH where I redeemed myself earning a 3.5.

Any thoughts on how much this low undergrad GPA will hurt me? I also have loads of experience, including three years working overseas on refugee issues.

Thank you!

I'm a CUSSW grad and I think that they definatley will value your experience and your graduate GPA over your undergrad.

[Dreams]

I'm a CUSSW grad and I think that they definatley will value your experience and your graduate GPA over your undergrad.

I concur with the previous posters. Not only will your MPH show you can handle graduate level work, but you experience shows that you have been clearly committed to the field up to this point. Go for it!

[usagi]

I'd imagine that your recent Master's level work will be more important to them than your undergrad GPA. Plus you have a great deal of experience, and international experience at that! I was accepted to Columbia's MSW for Fall 2010 and although I have no idea what exactly they're looking for, I'd be more than happy to shell out some stats regarding my academic history if you think that will be helpful.

I wouldn't stress too much about it. Just make your personal statement as strong as you can and make sure you have solid letters of recommendation.

I agree re: your experiences. Terri I'm curious, the deadline for the regular MSW program is the 15th, did you apply for an advanced standing program?

[tem11]

I agree re: your experiences. Terri I'm curious, the deadline for the regular MSW program is the 15th, did you apply for an advanced standing program?

Nope, I applied for the 2 year program. It's my top choice, so I applied back in October. Decisions weren't meant to go out until March but I heard in November. Just waiting on a financial aid decision!

[annie a]

Thank you so much for your words of support!

I have been quite nervous about this process as my undergrad transcripts look like a crime scene with the many "W" fro from withdrawing from classes.

Anyway, I submitted today. So I feel relieved! I am also thinking about applying to the New School International Affairs MA, but I wonder, in all honesty, how much a degree like this will get you a job.

Good luck and thanks all!

ann

[annie a]

Nope, I applied for the 2 year program. It's my top choice, so I applied back in October. Decisions weren't meant to go out until March but I heard in November. Just waiting on a financial aid decision!

Can you get US government aid if you apply to Oxford as a US citizen?

[tem11]

Can you get US government aid if you apply to Oxford as a US citizen?

Yes, I'll be eligible for federal loans.

I bet it's a huge relief to be finished! Keep us updated. Who knows, maybe we'll end up in the same place .

[annie a]

I'm a CUSSW grad and I think that they definatley will value your experience and your graduate GPA over your undergrad.

Hi Amanda,

Was your CUSSW degree/experience worth it?

Do you know anything about the policy track?

Thank you!!