<p>Hey guys,
I think I'm new to the Columbia forum, but I'm gonna be applying here as a transfer. My chances look pretty iffy tho (I had a 3.2/4 in HS w/ maximum AP load, decent ECs (debate captain, academic superbowl, etc) and my SATs are somewhat around the avg for Columbia (2170 SAT I, 800/730/630 Math II,US Hist,Bio). But I got a 3.93 this quarter at my school (mid-tier UC) w/ an A+ (yay!). I have also been involved in some lab work here as well, doing research on GBM, which is hte msot common type of brain tumor. Now I know Columbia has a famous neuroscience department and I am certainly gonna talk about it in my esssays, but is it appropriate to email a prof to tel lthem about my work and see if they can put in a rec for me (i've heard about this being done, taht's why)? Any general comments on my cahnces as well?</p>
<p>E-mail them, but don't request the recommendation instantly. You're better off discussing things with them and, gradually, mention you're applying to Columbia and hope to be admitted, etc.</p>
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Now I know Columbia has a famous neuroscience department and I am certainly gonna talk about it in my esssays, but is it appropriate to email a prof to tel lthem about my work and see if they can put in a rec for me (i've heard about this being done, taht's why)?
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<p>It's not going to work. Most profs are perceptive enough to know a suck-up when they see one and don't take too kindly to this sort of thing. What possible thing could a prof at CU who you randomly email and has never met you or worked with you say about you? Nothing.</p>
<p>The only reason why I would email a professor is if I am working specifically in their field and if you have actually worked with them. It's nice to talk to people about what you would like to study but that hardly counts as a connection.</p>
<p>haha i guess that would look like sucking up - i'll jsut stick to writing about it in my essays. what do you guys think of my chances tho?</p>
<p>being a transfer myself, i'd say the most important component is your essay. grades or numbers and stats will only get you so far but when the acceptance rate is 5%, i think it really depends on your reason from wanting to go from one place to another and how you and columbia can benefit each other.</p>
<p>hey collegegirl26 did you transfer in successfully? Yeah i've alreayd begun my essays, i hope they'll help me stand out. any other comments on chances?</p>
<p>bump.......</p>