Low GPA first two years, Grad school?

Graduate School
1

<p>So this is my situation. </p>

<p>The first two years of college I really didn't know what I was interested in. I took classes all over the spectrum and I thought it was more important to "figure out who I am" before I become a nerd and care all about grades. </p>

<p>Upon junior year, I went through some personal issues. I was really lost with what I want to do and just went through a horrible break up. I didn't really "fu*ked up" though. I decided I needed a break from my familiar social circle so I went to New York University for a domestic exchange (Spring and Summer). Although I am a double major in Philosophy and Communication, I only took 2 classes in NYU that is in my major. I did it purposely because I wasn't sure if I was truly passionate about what I am studying. I took many film classes and did a ton of internships. </p>

<p>Long story short is that I have come to decide to switch my major from Communication to Economics. So I'll be a double major in Philosophy and Econ. My GPA is 3.4, but I am just about to start taking classes for Econ. As for philosophy, I have yet taken higher level courses. I want to apply for grad school and I'm looking into Columbia, NYU or LSE (they have a great joint program with philosophy and Econ). </p>

<p>2 questions.</p>

<p>1) The one philosophy class I took at NYU (Modern Philosophy)-- my grade for that class was a 2.7. I'm wondering whether if I should retake it in my home institution. I'm trying to get into honors and a 2.7 will hurt. Is it worth it? Will this look bad for my grad school app?</p>

<p>2) Is it still possible for me to get into tier 1 grad schools given my 3.4 GPA now? Or does my major GPA matter more? </p>

<p>Thanks in advance!</p>

2

<p>A few students have perfect undergraduate records and some mess up their first couple years. That’s why graduate admissions does put more emphasis on your final years of study or relevant coursework. If you can retake it, go ahead and do that if you’re not happy with the grade.</p>

<p>On top of that, a 3.4 isn’t terrible. I would work with it, do well on your GRE, and apply to a range of schools. As long as you show an upward trend in your grades, get a lot of experience pertinent to your graduate studies, and do well on the GRE you should have credentials good enough for tier 1 grad schools. If that doesn’t work out, take a couple graduate level courses to show you can handle graduate level coursework.</p>