Can I get into a good MS program without research papers or guided projects possible?
Hey everyone,
My_qualifications: 8.4+ CGPA from a top IIT with a B.Tech in Civil Engineering and a minor in Artificial Intelligence. Will be graduating soon.
So basically the title, I have explored a lot of different domains during college and shifted interests greatly throughout, and by the end of my college I realised that I find transportation engineering quite interesting and wish to go for an MS (and potentially a PhD) in some well-regarded Transportation Engineering programs and most likely I'll apply for next year's Fall admissions. I did get placed as a Data scientist, but honestly, I don't see myself working in this sector for a long time.
I have a bunch of self projects, which primarily revolve around core engg + AI combo. I found transportation to be a better fit for me and there's a lot of potential AI/Math work in that field, but, like I said, I lack publications and have not worked with any professors on any projects, but profs do know me as a good student and I'm confident that I'll manage to get 2-3 LORs from my college at least.
Given these factors, how realistic would admission to a strong MS program in Transportation Engineering in the US be? I plan to have some industry experience before I decide to get into PhD or not (most likely I will). I do find academia fun, but I don't want to commit to that decision this early.
If someone has been in the same position and has been through the process, I'd love to know more. Most of my friends going for MS now either have had research experience, guided projects and/or really good CGPA. I do regret not doing projects under any prof, but ig it's too late now. Any advice on this matter and possible further steps will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks a lot!!