Bad Grade in Major Class, am I fluffed? (Mathematics)

Graduate School
1

<p>So I had my first real experience with research in biology this semester, and am interested in going into a high ranking University for a PhD in Applied Mathematics. However, I severely mismanaged my time with this commitment and got a B- (2.66) in the Fall semester Advanced Calculus (a very important class, more so for theoretical students I believe).</p>

<p>As a result, my GPA this Fall was a 3.6 (I only took 10 credits due to disability). My overall GPA is now a 3.79 and my major GPA is now a 3.71. There's 1 semester of Advanced Calculus left which builds upon and is more difficult than the previous semester. I've spoken to my professor and he says it's rare for a student to improve their grade by a letter from one semester to the next.</p>

<p>In addition to completely shutting down my social life, doing as much practice as possible and constantly attending office hours, what grade do I need in the Spring semester to have a significant chance of acceptance into universities such as MIT, Stanford, Washington and UC Berkeley. If I get a similar (but better) grade despite my studies next semester, am I completely fluffed?</p>

<p>My research interests are deeply rooted in gene regulation with a focus toward applied mathematics. </p>

2

<p>Ok, from my personal readings, I have come to a conclusion: don’t let this grade get me down. I am a little worried since this is my junior year (though I may stay a fifth year due to reduced course load); however, I just need to apply myself and get as good a grade as possible next semester.</p>

<p>In the fall of next year, I’ll also take a higher level class in modern analysis which is essentially an accelerated review of this semester with extra topics. Obviously, I won’t have much time to study for the GRE, but I should be able to get something to work.</p>

<p>Is trying to show my competence in the material by taking harder classes similar to the one where I just received a B- the right choice? Am I blowing this B- out of proportion? I would definitely appreciate a reply!</p>

3

<ol>
<li>A B- is not a bad grade.</li>
<li>A 3.79 with a 3.71 in your major is an excellent GPA.</li>
<li>Your GPA is very competitive for graduate school.</li>
</ol>

<p>Yes, you are blowing the B- out of proportion. You are obviously doing very well in the rest of your courses, so continue doing what you’re doing!</p>