PhD Bioinformatics

Graduate School
1

<p>Hi all,
I'm finishing my MS in CS; graduating with 6-7 publications, posters and peer-reviewed software specifically in bioinformatics</p>

<p>I've got plans on attending George Mason for my PhD in Bioinformatics (fall 2010).
Personal stats:
3.8 cumm. gpa in CS.
GRE: waived
Letters of rec: from GMU alumni and GMU affiliated professors.</p>

<p>... however, my undergrad was dismal (cumm gpa: 2.5; in cell biology) and I explained the reasoning for such performance in my personal statement. I devoted a paragraph for such explanation.
My current grad GPA is over 1 GPA point above my undergrad, but I am worried my undergrad gpa will cast a negative shadow and ruin my chances of gaining admission to this program.</p>

<p>I would assume that if admissions saw a considerably positive improvement in your grad gpa compared to your undergrad, that would override the undergrad mishaps.</p>

<p>If anyone has any advice or opinions, I would be very appreciative and thankful,
Thanks in advance,
p.</p>

2

<p>That’s pretty much the whole point of a master’s degree. It lets you make up for the lackluster performance in your undergraduate career. From the looks of your stats and the school you’re planning to attend, I’m pretty sure your chance in getting in is good :)</p>

3

<p>Hi ele902,</p>

<p>Thank you for your response; am very appreciative.
I agree that a masters degree serves such a purpose. I have come to think of it much like a ‘second chance’.
Thanks once again and good luck to yourself,</p>