I'm applying this fall for Chemistry PhD programs, and am pretty sure I can get into three of four schools. But they're all in pretty expensive areas, and it would be great if I could get a fellowship. My undergrad academic record isn't so great, though.

( stats and questions below cut )

Thanks in advance! Good luck with applications, everyone! :)

I'm a Chemistry Phd applicant, I've heard back from a few schools UMN, Penn State, TAMU, OSU (rejection).  I got 800/650/4.5 on my GRE.  Has anybody heard back from UIUC or UW?  I've posted my detailed profile at http://www.yuster.com/school/get_user_profile/1772, feel let me know my chances.

- Application for PhD in inorganic chemistry (WHOO!)
- GPA 3.45 overall and in major (A bit low, I know. Quantum and organic kicked my butt. Nothin' I can do about it now, though, so it's not worth stressin'.)
- GREs M:770 V:670 CHEM: God knows...
- This is targeted to one particular school, but I'll use the same basic template with all.
- Prompt: Please give your reasons for wishing to do graduate work in the field you
have chosen. Prepare your statement of objectives and goals in whatever
form clearly presents your views. Include as far as you can, your particular
interests, be they experimental, theoretical, or issue-oriented, and show how
your background and RAS’s programs support these interests.
- First draft (kinda...first time I'm showing it to anyone, but I self-edit like a fiend 'cause I was a writing tutor for 2 years)
- NO WORD LIMIT! YAY!
- I'm unsure about whether to include the couple lines about my minor, but I think it makes me stand out. Plus, chemists who write poetry are just awesome. Look at Roald Hoffman, rocking the Nobel Prize and all.
- Basically, have at it. Please be nitpicky about things like grammar. I won't cry. I promise.

( I will give you virtual chocolate chip cookies if you leave me constructive criticism. I'm tough. I can take it. )