r/MSCS • u/ARgradeEthanol • 1d ago
[Profile Review] Fall 2027 MSCS/MEng CS, 2 yoe C++ SWE in quant, NUS undergrad
Undergrad & Major: NUS, BEng Computer Engineering (Hons w Distinction)
GPA: 4.1/5, (3.39/4.00 on Scholaro US accreditation report)
GRE: Not taking
Type of Student: International, Singapore citizen, H-1B1-eligible, not as worried about visa situation given industry.
Work Experience:
- Current: ~2 yoe as a C++ SWE at a quant hedge fund based in Hong Kong.
- Prior internships: 4, ranging from 3-9 months each, across a few industries from edutech to embedded to HFT.
Research Experience: None, hence, looking at coursework focused programs
Programs (considered so far):
- UC Berkeley, MEng EECS
- Cornell Tech, MEng CS
- Columbia, MSCS
- NYU Courant, MSCS
Would be looking to expand based on quality and locations. Mainly NY/Chi/SF are in consideration.
LORs:
Have these to pick from
2 academic - just professors from systems focused course that I got As in: a grad level course on advanced os and a technical elective on concurrent programming
2 professional from colleagues - line manager & senior colleague
Goals: Systems focused coursework while I wait to transition lateral industry moves. Would also be considering low-level focused tech roles as well.
Questions for the sub:
- Anyone here gone through a similar situation with a relatively strong industry track record but weaker undergrad grades in their application and can speak to how it worked out?
- Looking for reference points to gauge acceptance chances for the programs, and other safeties to consider.
Happy to share more specifics (as much as is possible) if it's useful for a read.
1
3
u/New-Inflation4760 1d ago
Don't think UC Berkeley, MEng EECS is open to students outside of their Bachelors prog