Gita

Hello, I am an international student and have an undergraduate degree in economics from India, a master's degree in economics from UK, and have been working in economics research as a Research associate at an independent think tank for last 3 years. My query is whether it is okay to have my 3 recommendations from professors from my masters only? 1. My undergrad professor will give an average recommendation most probably (it's been a lot of years now since I've graduated + she doesn't herself conduct any research. Only teaches) 2. While I have been working as a researcher, my professional recommendation, although great, would be from non-phds. Any advise is most appreciated. Thank you!

Hi everyone, I'm applying for PhD (Econ) for fall 2019 in universities in USA and Canada. Few Stats on my application, Undergrad in Economics (One of the top universities in India) Undergrad GPA: 3.3 Masters in Economics (Top 30 in UK) Masters GPA: 3.7/4 Post this I've worked with an independent research institution as a Research Associate for last 3 years in South Asia. Also recently received a research grant for $40k (in collaboration with 3 other people) GRE: 167 Q, 162 V In addition to the above, while I have strong and positive recommendation letters, I'm afraid they won't be as valuable. One is from my econometrics teacher in Undergrad (an AP but doesn't do any research), another is from my masters thesis advisor (a lecturer), and the third is from my last manager (who is currently doing her PhD from UK). None of them are known or have any connections in USA/Canada. My queries are 1. Whether I should target only 50-100 ranked unis (or worse?) ? (I don't want to get into academia, but I enjoy research and would like to work in industry with government, think tanks and such) 2. I understand recommendations from professors are really valuable. Should I drop my manager and instead get a professor from my masters program? (Their recommendation won't be as strong as my master's but I'm guessing would be worth more) Any advise would be most helpful. Thank you!