I'm curious about what general thoughts and/or stigmas are associated with spending more than 4 years in undergrad.
I'm mostly wondering about an extra quarter (or two) instead of an entire 5th year. Not to make any excuses, but being a junior transfer can lead to disadvantages in course scheduling, GPA dilution, time of course completion, needing to work during the academic year, etc. which can lead to maybe needing an extra quarter.
Does it look bad to take an extra quarter to get all of your coursework done? Do you need an "explanation" for the lengthening of your undergrad? Thoughts on an entire 5th year?
I don't think so. I took 5 years and nobody has ever asked me about it. But the answer is obvious: you dicked around, changed majors, didn't take specific required classes in time, took time off, etc. Shit happens.
Now if the GPA sucks too- then it might be different.
Not a big deal unless you were on academic probation, or failing classes left and right.
Unless you do not graduate in the summer, how would anyone ever know? Everyone would just assume you took four years. Even if they were to ask (would never happen), no one would care.
People often notice the gap / extra year on a resume.
based upon personal experience an extra semester or even a year in some cases is perfectly acceptable, as long as you have an acceptable reason, such as having to work. most of the time nobody notices anyway
I switched majors & it took me 4.5 yrs. Other than some razzing from a few friends back then, I think I turned out ok. It might only matter if you are applying to the most prestigious of firms where the competition to get in is thick & the weeding out process is more stringent. Apart from that, the breadth & balance of your resume, along with your interviewing & potential promise, should more than make up for it.
Know someone who spent 5 years for undergrad and is going to hbs. No big deal. gpa is what matters.
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