<p>Hi I have the option of taking a graduate level class next semester for AE at Georgia Tech. I am trying to apply for grad schools at Stanford, MIT, and Caltech. Would taking this class be beneficial in the applications process? I do not want to put more pressure on myself this semester if it is not necessary, but the professor who is teaching the class has a good track record of a high GPA avg 3.85. Thanks for your advice!</p>
<p>It will help your application, but only if you do well. In my experience, strong reference letters and research experience will help you more, but if you’ve already got these bases covered, go for it!</p>
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<p>I have one LOR from my research advisor, one from a professor who got his PhD from Stanford, and another from the Chair for Undergraduate Affairs for the Aerospace Department who will also be teaching this Graduate class, and I know him very well. But will Grad schools really look at this in a good manner, I mean will it be something that would make me stand out?</p>
<p>Yes, it will be looked at positively and help you to stand out. But you will need to spend time on this course, and if you are concerned about your work load, do not feel pressured into taking it. I didn’t take any grad-level courses as an engineering undergrad, and still got in. </p>
<p>Your reference letters sound great. Have you taken the GRE? If not, remember to budget time for it this semester, since a low score can hurt your application.</p>
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<p>Yea I did take it but, I scored a little low so I am going take it over in October.</p>