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Hi everyone, I'm getting hundreds of messages on how to advance in higher education with a low GPA. While I hope to respond to as many people as I can, let me share a few general tips below.
How to overcome a low undergraduate GPA [a thread]
How to overcome a low undergraduate GPA [a thread]
1) take time off between undergrad and graduate school.
I took 5 years off between UG & grad school working my way up from an animal tech to a lab manager. This helps you get relevant experience & connect w/ mentors who can write you great letters of rec. Also, make that $$! /1
I took 5 years off between UG & grad school working my way up from an animal tech to a lab manager. This helps you get relevant experience & connect w/ mentors who can write you great letters of rec. Also, make that $$! /1
[Side note: the truth is, when we're financially independent +/or struggle with finances in UG like many first gen, low income +/or URM may be, it is incredibly difficult to afford to work jobs, do classes, pay for the GRE/apps, then have $$$ to move & start a new program.] /2
[Side note continued: this is why I advocate for taking time off. Give yourself time to save up, get relevant experience, really think about what program you want &why, etc. You will likely grow so much in that time & confidently pick a great program with ample time to apply. /3
2) Online classes or community College post-highschool or college.
This is a great option if you did not get into college or grad school the first time. Many do not share this but it is VERY common for people not to get in on the first try. This may also help
your GPA. /4
This is a great option if you did not get into college or grad school the first time. Many do not share this but it is VERY common for people not to get in on the first try. This may also help
your GPA. /4
3) This is so hard to know without mentorship, but the grad school application process is lengthy and expensive. Start working on this application process one year before applying. Mentors at @MUSEmentorship have a timeline/tips ready to share with URM and first gen students. /5
4) Please understand that although people aren't talking about their unorthodox paths, rarely is success a straight line. You can have a low UG GPA and still be a doctor. URM & 1st gen, we need you all in academia. Let MUSE know if we can help. http://Www.musementorship.com /6
As an example, I studied Biology & French in undergrad, now I'm in a PhD neuroscience program. I've failed endlessly & beautifully. I'm still here. This is why representation & mentorship are so important. We need examples of success that reflect our own stories.] 7/7
