Profile Evaluation

[Jedison]

Would really appreciate some feedback on my chances at top 10 programs.
Mediocre Private School (good rep on the street)-3.64 overall 3.80 (Math Major) premed program. Currently in Columbia Pre-MFE. 4.0 current gpa (Stats, probability, Analysis II). Taking intro comp sci, optimization, stochastic processes, and complex analysis currently. Plan to study PDE's, Stochastic Calculus, and advanced programming in the spring. Good letters of rec from undergrad profs, 1 rec from analysis teacher at CU (not a prof, grad student :-/ ). No work experience, one summer of medical research, another summer math research modeling protein structures (no publications unfortunately). Gre 167 Q 157 V 4.0 W. Really stressing about my apps because I'm very interested in a quant career. What are my chances, give it to me straight!

 

[Azamat Bagatov]

Your chances are good. If I were you, I wouldn't worry much about them and try to put up a strong application via LORs and Statement. Also, objectivize your interests. Try aligning them perfectly with your background and experience. Apply early.

 

[Jedison]

Thanks for the reply. I'm definitely going to focus as much as possible on the aspects of my application that I can still control. I have two other minor questions regarding apps as well that maybe you could help me with.
1. Can I update my apps once I receive my grades for this semester. So far looking like all A's!
2. Would it be strange to include a sheet listing my relevant/challenging coursework? I know that admissions officers can see this on my transcripts but I thought my app might look stronger if I highlighted these courses and perhaps even computed an overall GPA in them.

 

[Azamat Bagatov]

2. Jedison, most applications do have a section where they'd ask you to mention relevant coursework and briefly speak about them. From what I remember, Rutgers, Boston, Columbia and Gatech have them for sure. So, in a way, you'd be doing it as a part of your application. If you wish to speak further them, I suggest you upload them under additional material on the application. If there is no such section, call up the graduate co-ordinator at these programs and they would guide you.

1. Some colleges allow you to update your application after you submit until it goes to review. Some dont. From what I believe, they will definitely allow you to update your application with the grades. You might wanna speak to the respective co-ordinators about this. Alternatively, you should find info on the FAQs.

Good luck!

 

[Jedison]

Thanks for your help!