Profile Evaluation of a Chemistry undegrad

[Brack5]

Hello,

I'm about to start PhD program applications and just wanted an idea of how competitive my profile looks. Any insight would be appreciated. I hope to pursue Applied Statistics.

Some schools I'm considering:  Ohio State, Virginia Tech, NC State, Northwestern, Illinois, Indiana, Purdue, Michigan

Institution: Large State School, top 100

Major: Chemistry BS

GPA: 3.9

GRE: 169 - Q , 157 - V,  4.0- W

Classes taken:

Differential Equations (A)
Calculus-based Probability (expected A)
Linear Algebra (expected A)
Calculus 1-3 (all A's or A+)

2nd class of Calculus-based Prob (final semester)

Regression (final semester)

Letters of Recommendation: I expect two very strong letters and a reasonably strong third letter. One from my Chem advisor, one from my Calc 1-3 and Dif. Eq. professor, one from my current Probability professor and mentor

Research: I participated in one semester of Chemistry research (P-chem)

Work/Job: TA for Organic 1 and Organic 2 lab. 

Concerns: 

Obviously, I decided about Stats grad school late in my undergrad career (Summer before senior year). My biggest concern is my lack of experience in Stats field. I am confident that I can learn the material adequately, and I really enjoy the classes I have taken so far, but I worry I will be viewed as inexperienced. I think my GRE quant score and GPA indicate that I have the ability, but I worry schools won't want a Chemistry undegrad.

 

[StatHopeful]

Hi Brack5,

I'm a student applying for programs this year, so take my advice with a grain of salt.

I think you have a decent shot at most of the programs you listed. Indiana is probably a very high chance of getting a slot. I think Michigan especially would be very difficult to crack.

Your biggest shortcoming is a lack of upper-level mathematics courses, not statistics. If possible, try and take an advanced calculus (real analysis) class in your next semester, it will help a lot with the coursework you'll see in your first few semesters of graduate school. I'd mention this briefly in a personal statement just to eliminate some doubt in the committee's mind. 

You may also look into Biostatistics programs. The mathematics background expectation will be a bit lower, and your chemistry background will give some weight to your profile if you have experience in analytical chemistry. There are some top-notch programs at Minnesota and Michigan, if you're looking to stay around Big 10 country. 

Hope  that helps!

Edited October 31, 2017 by StatHopeful