Want a higher GPA? Go to a private university.

[DrPhil]

Originally Posted by 1stSoon2BePhD

Also, I am feeling the lack of inflation in science grades right about now and I don't like it ooooonnnneee bit!

Or, there's another explanation for why you're receiving the grades you're receiving.

Also, across disciplines there's more grading leniency in graduate programs when departments get beyond the "gatekeeper" stage and focus on mentoring relationships, student retention and time to degree. The doctoral professor who was a hardass in your 1st and 2nd years won't necessarily be so once you've gotten to the "soon 2 be" years.

[1stSoon2BePhD]

Originally Posted by DrPhil

Also, across disciplines there's more grading leniency in graduate programs when departments get beyond the "gatekeeper" stage and focus on mentoring relationships, student retention and time to degree. The doctoral professor who was a hardass in your 1st and 2nd years won't necessarily be so once you've gotten to the "soon 2 be" years.

The hardest part is that some are trying to weed out weak links while others are more nurturing. So my first semester, I had two nurturing professors who "only want to see students doing well" and now I have a hardass.

And not surprisingly, I am learning MUCH more from the hardass because I have to study harder!