<p>I graduated from the University of Arizona with a degree in physics and a 3.04 gpa. Originally I attempted to find a job where I could start a career in EE. However that proved very difficult with the current economy. So I've decided getting a Masters (and possibly a PhD) will be a good way to get into the Electrical Engineering field as I have always intended to take this step. However, after applying to a few programs and getting rejected I have come to realize this is going to be more difficult than I anticipated. I have also come to realize that I did a poor job in building credentials while an undergrad. So here are the stats for my application and some thoughts on how I might improve them.</p>
<p>Application:</p>
<p>GPA:<br>
overall: 3.04/4.0<br>
physics: 3.06/4.0<br>
junior/senior: 2.8/4.0 (however last 3 semesters were above 3.0)</p>
<p>GRE:
Math: 800
Verbal:700
Writing:4</p>
<p>Recommendations: probably only 1 out of 3 letters is a strong recommendation</p>
<p>Research: I have 3 semesters of theoretical research (so nothing applicable to EE) and I am not published</p>
<p>Thus far I have been rejected from ASU and University of Arizona, and rejections from UCSD and Cornell are expected.</p>
<p>So I realize my deficiencies are my 2.8 junior/senior gpa, possibly weak recommendations, limited research, and limited practical experience in EE. I have come up with two possibilities for improving my application over the next couple years.</p>
<p>1) Apply as a non-degree seeking student into my preferred school (currently ASU) and do well in a few graduate level EE courses. This way I could improve my gpa and my recommendations, as well as get to know the faculty.</p>
<p>2) Get a job related to engineering (possibly as an engineering Technician). This way I could gain experience in EE, improve my recommendations, and possibly get to participate in research.</p>
<p>Please post your thoughts on these ideas as well as any other ways you can think of that I might improve my chances.</p>