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Retaking Classes

Posted: Thu Apr 23, 2015 3:54 pm
by sploosh
Hi everyone. I'd like to apply for applied math/operations research PhD programs, but I know that I'm gonna get really bad grades in two of my math classes this semester (Galois theory and probability). I don't have a great excuse for this, just general family related stress.

I'm planning on retaking the courses, and I'm confident that I can get A's in these classes on the second time around. I have a pretty good math GPA otherwise. Are my chances shot for good PhD programs?

Re: Retaking Classes

Posted: Thu Apr 23, 2015 5:36 pm
by p-adic
Are you a junior now?

Re: Retaking Classes

Posted: Thu Apr 23, 2015 9:21 pm
by sploosh
I'm actually in my 4th year, but I was planning on taking another semester anyways to do Budapest Semesters in Mathematics. My plan would be to find an internship during the term after Budapest Semesters (which I have lined up) and retake my classes part time.

Re: Retaking Classes

Posted: Thu Apr 23, 2015 9:47 pm
by p-adic
Without knowing your GPA, major GPA, GRE scores, home institution, research experience, LORs, or what you mean by good, I'll give a vague yes.

Re: Retaking Classes

Posted: Fri Apr 24, 2015 12:44 am
by sploosh
GPA: ~3.5. Probably lower after this term
Major GPA: About the same
GRE scores: have yet to take them
Home institution: University of Pittsburgh
Research Experience: Not much, but I'll do research project in Budapest
LORS: I'll expect them to be decent at least
Good: I'm not entirely sure what I mean. Maybe top 50, but thats not really a hard requirement for me.

Re: Retaking Classes

Posted: Fri Apr 24, 2015 1:01 am
by p-adic
Top 25 is probably out of reach, but top 50 should be attainable. Maybe even top 30. Do a good job with your research and try to get 750+ on the Math GRE (or lower if you're aiming for a top 50 school and not a little higher than that).