<p>Hello,</p>
<p>I am looking to apply to graduate school for public policy in the fall of 2013. I graduated in 2010 from a top liberal arts college with a degree in Political Science. My cumulative GPA was relatively low (3.35) and my major GPA was slightly lower. I don't have a great reason for not performing better; I was very interested in my classes and formed good relationships with professors, but I just didn't focus as well as I could have. Also, my department was definitely <em>not</em> known for grade inflation.</p>
<p>Since graduating, I have worked for almost two years as a case manager in DC, which has led to an interest in criminal justice policy. I do not have direct policy experience -- I have tried, but most paid positions seem to require a master's -- but I have experience working with the population that is impacted by my desired policy focus. I have tried to demonstrate policy knowledge by volunteering with advocacy groups and writing for policy blogs. I haven't taken the GRE yet, but I expect to do very well. I also expect to have strong letters of recommendation, including one that will be extremely strong.</p>
<p>Do I have a good shot at mid-tier schools, like UMD-College Park, Andrew Young School at Georgia State, American, etc.? Do I have any shot at all at top-tier schools? What should I emphasize in my statement of purpose in order to maximize my chances?</p>
<p>Thank you so much for any advice.</p>