Realistic Chances for E.E. grad

Graduate School
1

<p>Hi, I'm just wondering if I could get some feedback as to my chances at Ph.D. programs I am applying to for Elec. Engr.</p>

<p>-Stanford
-MIT
-Caltech (applying both for EE and Appl Phys)
-Mich
-GaTech
-Berkeley</p>

<p>My situation is a tad bit complicated since I am doing a dual degree (BS in Nuclear Engineering and Physics and MS in Engineering Physics) at a Big Ten University, but I will finish it early in just 4 years (I am entering my 4th and last year). My undergrad gpa is a 3.72 and I have only had one class for my MS so far (got an A...so I guess I have a 4.0). Haven't taken the GRE's yet, but expect to do fairly well.
I have been involved in a research group the last 2 years, have one publication where I am the second author - published in JAP. Should have a great letter from this research professor (PhD from Berkeley) and another who served as my advisor for my senior thesis (PhD from Berkeley), and a good one from my Department Chair (PhD from MIT). </p>

<p>I know my gpa is not super, but I feel it's pretty good as my class schedule has been very tough (mostly I've taken 18+ credits per semester in order to finish undergrad in 3 years) and I have taken alot of grad courses (more than 10 courses that would be considered graduate courses). What responses should I expect from the above universities? I really like the programs at MIT and Stanford. What about chances at fellowships as well?</p>

2

<p>I don’t know why people on CC imply that a 3.7 GPA is not good. Do you know how many students, even those applying to graduate schools, would love to have that GPA, especially in engineering? </p>

<p>Your GPA is within range, but that’s not getting you in. Your research combined with LORs will, and, if they are as strong as you indicate, you should have a good chance at the above, provided your interests match theirs.</p>