3 answers
Balogun
Student
1
Question
Asked
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What should i do Im a 3rd year student in the biochemistry field in a university, and my life goal(which is already clear) is to be a computational biochemist, but my grades are bad as it is now. And based on research to achieve that kind of a goal requires a good amd high grades amidst competitions, which I don't have now. Should I still continue or rather chase this but I love it dearly. ?
I already have some knowledge about simple python and how ML operates behind the scene m, also studying protein which is part of my discipline.
3 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Balogun !
I appreciate that you've come here to air your thoughts and concerns.
Someone who doesn't know you will not be able to tell you if you should continue with Biochemistry or not. I do not know why you are getting "bad" grades. You said "bad" but you didn't say that you are failing. There's a difference. It seems as though you are beginning to worry about your grades now in your third year of college, so maybe dedicating more time and making stronger connections in your Biochemistry Department could help with your grades.
You alone will have to decide if you want to continue with Biochemistry. Worrying about competition will only hold you back. Get more involved in the work and if you think you may be able to handle it, consider going for a Masters Degree, which is demanding, in Biochemistry so that in the end you will have a higher degree. You have to come to realistic terms about why you think you're getting "bad" grades. Only you know the answer to that.
To discuss this one on one, speak with your professors or If you are in the U.S., visit your on campus Career Center or the equivalent if outside of the U.S. It's great to reach out, but reassurance may not be helpful for this, especially from people who don't know you. That is why only you can make the decision. Most likely you will probably follow through, get your Bachelors Degree, decide if you should go for a Masters Degree and build confidence about a future career. I think you'll do this because you said that you love it. You do not need permission to pursue your career.
So analyze what has brought about the grades, change things to improve them and don't worry about your career before it even starts. You don't know, and are not supposed to know yet, what opportunities await you. Best wishes in all you do !
I appreciate that you've come here to air your thoughts and concerns.
Someone who doesn't know you will not be able to tell you if you should continue with Biochemistry or not. I do not know why you are getting "bad" grades. You said "bad" but you didn't say that you are failing. There's a difference. It seems as though you are beginning to worry about your grades now in your third year of college, so maybe dedicating more time and making stronger connections in your Biochemistry Department could help with your grades.
You alone will have to decide if you want to continue with Biochemistry. Worrying about competition will only hold you back. Get more involved in the work and if you think you may be able to handle it, consider going for a Masters Degree, which is demanding, in Biochemistry so that in the end you will have a higher degree. You have to come to realistic terms about why you think you're getting "bad" grades. Only you know the answer to that.
To discuss this one on one, speak with your professors or If you are in the U.S., visit your on campus Career Center or the equivalent if outside of the U.S. It's great to reach out, but reassurance may not be helpful for this, especially from people who don't know you. That is why only you can make the decision. Most likely you will probably follow through, get your Bachelors Degree, decide if you should go for a Masters Degree and build confidence about a future career. I think you'll do this because you said that you love it. You do not need permission to pursue your career.
So analyze what has brought about the grades, change things to improve them and don't worry about your career before it even starts. You don't know, and are not supposed to know yet, what opportunities await you. Best wishes in all you do !
Ohh thank you very much, this is really much of great help. Now I good really see differences in "failing" and "bad" as I said.
With this been said, I rather stick with biochemistry, it's what I love and I'm ready to give all it take to push through this. Will make sure I meet with my professors as soon as I can, thanks very much for this. I'm really grateful
Balogun
You are very welcome, Balogun !
Michelle M.
Karthick Natarajan
Postdoctoral Researcher at NYU Langone Health
32
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Karthick’s Answer
Hi,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. It's tough when your grades don't match your passion, and I understand.
Your concern is valid because competition is intense. However, the important thing is your love for the subject, which truly drives you.
When applying for a Ph.D. program, remember that many have passion, but few show resilience. Your situation is a chance to demonstrate your resilience.
Don't dwell on past mistakes. Let's focus on building a better future. Here's how:
1. Join a Research Lab. Find a professor in computational biochemistry whose work you admire. Share your story and your eagerness to contribute. Aim for a recommendation letter that highlights your creativity and persistence, not just your grades. This can make a big difference.
2. Show Improvement. Getting an 'A' in a core class now shows your focus and growth. It reflects who you are today, which is more important than past performance.
3. Prove Your Passion. Work on personal projects. Learn a coding language relevant to the field, or try replicating results from a paper you like. This demonstrates your love for the subject beyond the classroom.
You can't change your old grades, but you can present a compelling story to the admissions committee: someone who loves their field so much they won't be held back by early challenges.
That's the kind of person others want to work with.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. It's tough when your grades don't match your passion, and I understand.
Your concern is valid because competition is intense. However, the important thing is your love for the subject, which truly drives you.
When applying for a Ph.D. program, remember that many have passion, but few show resilience. Your situation is a chance to demonstrate your resilience.
Don't dwell on past mistakes. Let's focus on building a better future. Here's how:
1. Join a Research Lab. Find a professor in computational biochemistry whose work you admire. Share your story and your eagerness to contribute. Aim for a recommendation letter that highlights your creativity and persistence, not just your grades. This can make a big difference.
2. Show Improvement. Getting an 'A' in a core class now shows your focus and growth. It reflects who you are today, which is more important than past performance.
3. Prove Your Passion. Work on personal projects. Learn a coding language relevant to the field, or try replicating results from a paper you like. This demonstrates your love for the subject beyond the classroom.
You can't change your old grades, but you can present a compelling story to the admissions committee: someone who loves their field so much they won't be held back by early challenges.
That's the kind of person others want to work with.
Isabel Dominguez
Student
137
Answers
Corning, California
Updated
Isabel’s Answer
Hi Balogun,
It’s great that you have a clear goal and passion for becoming a computational biochemist—loving what you do is a huge advantage. While grades can be important, especially for competitive fields, they’re not the only factor that defines your future success. Since you already have some Python knowledge and understand machine learning basics, you’re on a good path. Here’s what I’d suggest:
Focus on Strengthening Your Skills: Keep improving your programming skills and learn more about computational tools used in biochemistry, like molecular modeling software or data analysis libraries. Online courses and projects can boost your experience and resume.
Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships, research assistant roles, or independent projects related to computational biology. Hands-on experience can sometimes outweigh GPA in the eyes of employers and grad schools.
Improve Grades Strategically: Identify your weakest subjects and dedicate extra effort there. Seek help from professors, tutors, or study groups. Even small grade improvements can make a difference.
Build a Network: Connect with professors, researchers, and professionals in computational biochemistry. They can offer advice, mentorship, and potentially opportunities.
Ultimately, your passion and effort can open doors even if your grades aren’t perfect now. Keep going, stay curious, and focus on building your skills and experience.
It’s great that you have a clear goal and passion for becoming a computational biochemist—loving what you do is a huge advantage. While grades can be important, especially for competitive fields, they’re not the only factor that defines your future success. Since you already have some Python knowledge and understand machine learning basics, you’re on a good path. Here’s what I’d suggest:
Focus on Strengthening Your Skills: Keep improving your programming skills and learn more about computational tools used in biochemistry, like molecular modeling software or data analysis libraries. Online courses and projects can boost your experience and resume.
Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships, research assistant roles, or independent projects related to computational biology. Hands-on experience can sometimes outweigh GPA in the eyes of employers and grad schools.
Improve Grades Strategically: Identify your weakest subjects and dedicate extra effort there. Seek help from professors, tutors, or study groups. Even small grade improvements can make a difference.
Build a Network: Connect with professors, researchers, and professionals in computational biochemistry. They can offer advice, mentorship, and potentially opportunities.
Ultimately, your passion and effort can open doors even if your grades aren’t perfect now. Keep going, stay curious, and focus on building your skills and experience.
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