Seeking MS in EE, with problems

Graduate School
1

<p>Hi. --> This is my first post :)</p>

<p>I'm an international undergrad ('07 class) with 3.08/4 GPA. I am planning to apply for an MS in electrical engineering, focusing on electronics and opto-electronics.</p>

<p>Bio:
I've had 3 horrible semesters starting sophomore, due to family problems, where unfortunately I stumbled in many major courses. The worst case was a fail grade in one. after that, I rebooted my life. my grades started bouncing back (last semester GPA: 3.7 - all major courses).
I would consider my background in my major and focus a little above average overall, I admit though.
I've now done 1 year working in a start-up department, in the largest research center (goverment run) in my country, and they will fully fund my study. I am now visiting MIT, actually, to do joint work between my dep. and MIT.
Had a research bit when undergrad. No publications so far.
GRE (will do it again): Q:770, V:340(yes!), A:3.0. TOEFL(IBT): 107/120. Will get recommendations and work hard for SoP letter.</p>

<p>My request:
I would like the chance to get into the best program I can get. I'm hoping for something in the northeast (Maryland College Park, U Penn, V Tech, etc. as 1st tier). Will finalize 5 of each 1st, 2st, and 3rd possible tiers.</p>

<p>I would really appreciate any comments and suggestions. Please ask me if there is anything unclear.
Thanks...</p>

2

<p>What is your major GPA? Depending on the school, some programs put a more heavy emphasis on upper division/major GPA rather than cumulative. This might help your chances.</p>

<p>Also, raise that verbal score--I know that the GRE Verbal is stupid but you want to make sure the admissions officers know you can speak/communicate.</p>

<p>Do you have any research experience ?</p>