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Mention (explain) fall in GPA or not?? (PhD motivation letter)

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Andr359  #410768  Tue, 28 Aug 07 10:28 PM
The GPA of the second year of my master´s degree is (noticeably) lower -although still fairly okay- than that of the first year. I have a "to whom it may correspond" letter from my Student Advisor of that time explaining the issue. Should I mention this fact in the motivation letter for PhD admissions or should I just ignore it? I´m afraid that any negative comment, even if the explanation is well grounded, can hurt my chances of admission, and would rather concentrate on my "pluses" and leave the "minuses" to the adm committee´s understanding. Thank you.
  
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Grammar Geek  #410905  Wed, 29 Aug 07 04:45 AM

I wouldn't. If your transcript itself has a letter attached to it, let that speak for itself. Use your motivation letter to talk about what you want to do, not what has happened.

Of course, it depends on the reason - if you think the net result left you "new and improved" it may be considered something that has shaped you. With such a vague description, it's hard to give specific advice.

  
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Andr359  #410937  Wed, 29 Aug 07 07:18 AM
Actually the student advisor´s letter is not attached to the transcripts, but in fact I agree: I´d rather use precious motivation letter space to write in a positive, forward-looking mood.
Cheers again, Grammar Geek
  
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