Getting into a masters program in NYC

[sterra]

Hi all,

I'm a senior nursing student at Saint Louis University and I'm asking about the possibility of me getting into the masters program at New York University. I'm moving to New York after I graduate, and intend to work a few years and then go for my masters. Of course, NYU is a very difficult school to get into, and my GPA doesn't exactly speak for how good of a student I really am. Currently, I'm at a 3.05. I know, I know. I was "that kid" who had a 3.7 in high school, thought she could get off easy in college and surprise! college ended up being hard. Once I got my act together, I actually got a bit excited about showing my mom my grades at the end of each semester. But still, it's not nearly as high as I know it could have been. Once I graduate SLU, I will do so with concentrations in both Interprofessional Practice and Family Centered Care. I also work as a caregiver on weekends, as well as working as a tech on a general med surge floor at a local hospital. On top of that, I volunteer twice a week at a children's hospital. Other accolades include being accepted into a clinical group that spent a week working with kids at a diabetes camp in the summer (this group was by application only, and out of 40-50 students, only 8 of us were accepted). I have excellent recommendations from a few of my clinical instructors so far (although, I'm not sure they will be relevant by the time I apply for grad school; I will most likely ask my employer to write at least one of my letters of rec once I apply). I'm also a part of a few clubs at school (International Ambassadors, Student Nurses Association, softball, etc.).

Now for my question. Do you think with my concentrations, recommendations, a strong essay, work experience (meaning, the experience I gain after I get my RN, not specifically where I'm working now), and other areas of involvement I will be able to off-set my poor GPA and give myself a chance of getting into a good school like NYU? This is something I've wanted for a long time and will work my ass off to get if I have to. I intend to take a few graduate level courses if I can so that I can keep my mind fresh and further my education a little while I'm working. Basically, what do you think my chances are of getting in? Do you have any suggestions that would help make my application draw a little more attention? Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.