Evaluate Int'l applicant with moderate ambitions

[jenizaro]

Hello,

This is my first post, though I've been reading the forum for quite some time now. Reading it has become like a drug really, so much useful information.

Anyways, I'd like to do the Econ PhD too (surprise ! ), but my credentials are not very competitive. I'm an international student, econ major, finishing my Master in Finance, with quite unimpressing grades (UGPA 2.8/4, graduate GPA 3.3/4). My undergraduate school is a top public university in my country, and I'm doing my master's at my country's top business school. I know that doesn't make any big difference though. I did well in the mathematics courses (was teaching assistant for calculus and linear algebra) except in statistics and econometrics (hated the profesor...). Nonetheless I consider I have the required background to pursue an Econ PhD, and feel there's nothing else I'd like more than that.

I haven't taken the GRE yet, but aiming between 780-800Q, 450-550V. The fields that interest me are trade and development, international finance, macroeconomis and econometrics.

So, my question to all of you TMians is what schools do you think I should apply? I've considered all the 100-300 spectrum in the econphd.net rankings, but don't have a clue about my real chances. Are Iowa State or George Washington reachable for me? Would it be better to do a MA in economics before applying?

Thanks for your help!

[goldie1]

You haven't listed ALL of your math classes like all of the other folks but given your background, I'd at least TRY for some decent schools. I say apply to at least one dream school (top 15), a couple of reaches, and some safeties. Best wishes!!

[jenizaro]

Thanks Goldie, I'll try to follow your good advice, I do tend to be too pessimistic...

[mfarhanmajid]

i would say that if u can get a paper published in a respected journal that could turn the tables 180 degree for u. aprt from that , if u are really comiiteed try doing a amsters from the states/uk in econ and simultaneusly make contacts with faculty so as to get a good letter. then u could easily apply to any decent top school- u need to convince the adcom that u are motivated, have good potential as a researcher, and know how grad school works.

good luck with apps!

[jenizaro]

Thanks Marf, I think you're right and that's what I intend to do. Good luck to you too!

[Corneconomics]

You aren't going to get a paper published in a journal that will turn heads for an application cycle or two. Another option you could look at for higher schools is applied economics programs that show a chance at moving to the regular program (for instance Minnesota is good at your interests, you might ask them about their applied program). I think Iowa State is a reach if you don't have too much of a math background, but if your math is ok, then go for it. OTOH, their development research is very agriculture (and Iowa) focussed.