UMich Chances???

Graduate School
1

<p>Hello,</p>

<p>Yes, I understand that it is really impossible to chance me at any given university, but I am just looking for general ideas/advice/thoughts. What kinds of programs (as far as rank/prestige for materials) might I be capable of getting into?...Also, wondering my chances at UMich specifically.</p>

<p>I have been seriously considering attending graduate school for Chemistry (specifically Materials Chemistry). I was attracted to University of Michigan because of its top rankings, interesting college town, and affordability of housing in the area. I am a rising Senior at the University of Pittsburgh with a major in Chemistry and a GPA of roughly 3.48. I have gotten 3 C's in Physics, Calc II (terrible professor), and Biology 2. Other than that, my grades are mostly A's, with some B's in gen eds (my Chem GPA is alot higher neglecting these classes). By the time of my graduation, I will have 4 full semesters (8 credits) of Undergraduate Research in a Materials Chemistry group, relating to polymer solar cells. In addition, I will have 2-3 semesters (4-6 credits) of Undergraduate Teaching experience in an Analytical Chemistry Lab. Somewhat unrelated, but still academic, I am currently doing Summer Research for a Professor running an Ecology study that involves collecting field data relating to animal herbivory. </p>

<p>Anyways, I was wondering what chances I had of getting into University of Michigan Grad School? I have 2 solid recommendations right now, and working on finding a third good one. I haven't taken my GRE's yet, but plan to take the regular GRE at the end of the summer. Not sure if I should take the Chemistry GRE?</p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

2

<p>Take the Chemistry GRE. If it is a solid score you can report it and it will help. In any case, look for other programs which have the kind of research you are interested in and you are sure to get into. UM is always selective and you never know if you will be competitive with the other applicants. Remember, it is not so much the university but your Ph.D. (I assume that is what you are after) advisor who is the key to your success. </p>

3

<p>yeah i am just worried about having time to take the chem gre. not sure if i have the time to study for it. and yes i am after a phd! i have a bit of a connection to UMich through a professor i know and i have looked at the research going on there…some cool stuff. i just don’t know what i am competing against, or what types of schools i am capable of getting into with my qualifications. nobody i know is doing this or has done it in the near past (work towards getting a phd that is), so im pretty much on my own and a bit confused lol</p>