Hi I’m currently a sophomore at William and Mary and planning to major in econ. I’ve gotten really crappy grades in my intro classes (a B and a C). My current GPA is 2.5 and I failed my intermediate micro class. Is there any way I can redeem myself? My dream is to go to hopkins and get a PhD but I don’t know if this is possible anymore. Will I be better off just working a few years after graduating and then applying to a grad school?
This depends on what research experiences and recommendations you have, and of course how you do in coursework going forward. Usually ppl don’t aim for a Ph.D. at one particular uni because it is so competitive and research interests have to mesh well with profs at Unis where there are spots open, so you need a variety of options. Ph.D. In Econ is extremely competitive and you need very strong math as well as a top profile, some ppl will get a MAsters first to strengthen profile.
But failing a class (why didn’t you take a W at least) seems you are not in the mindset or ready to do what it takes. Maybe think about how you would have to change and if you are being realistic about ability and willingness.
Thanks for the advice! I think aiming for a Master’s might be more realistic at this point. W&M doesn’t allow withdrawals after the third week of classes and by that point the only assignment that was due was a homework. Part of my weak performance has to do with ongoing mental health issues.
Does anyone know of any reputable (but at this point) attainable masters programs? I would like to stay at at least W&M caliber but I don’t know how possible that is at this point.
Right now, you need to aim for a Bachelor’s degree and not worry about graduate school. Get the most out of your courses and leave these decisions until your Senior year.
If you’re a sophomore, don’t worry about finding any master’s programs yet. You still have three semesters of coursework to factor into your GPA before you have a good idea of where you’re at and where you’re competitive - plus your interests may shift, evolve, or change over time. Instead, for now just concentrate on keeping your grades up and getting some research experience.
Agree with the posters above–don’t worry yet about grad school. Why not see if you can get some help with your mental health issues so you can concentrate on your coursework in the future.