jamesposthorn

Hello all, I’m looking for some strategy advice on the path through a terminal MA and into a PhD in a top philosophy department. Brief background––I attended a small liberal arts school and pursued interdisciplinary interests in a rather careless manner, ending up with a degree in Religious Studies (Theology), minors in Music and Philosophy, and a spate of languages, advanced Lit coursework, and study abroad. I graduated 2 years ago with a 3.89. In the interim I have done little to garnish a CV besides travel to the ends of the earth and futilely strive to be published as a poet. My path is further complicated by my firm AOI: Continental Aesthetics, Existentialism, and Philosophy of Literature. So at this point it seems obvious that a MA in Philosophy is essential. I imagine you'd agree. But I have investigated the terminal MA field enough to suspect that the top programs, let’s say for example Georgia State or Tufts, may be out of my reach. So there’s my first question: am I right in thinking I’m subpar for a top MA? (Incidentally, and for reference, I am a compulsive test perfecter and anticipate an excellent GRE.) On the other hand, I live near Gonzaga University, which has an undeniably unranked but energetic MA program in Philosophy that has several Continental philosophers on tap and costs less than half what Tufts/Brandeis would. What if I got my MA there? Can I reasonably expect that, if I perform excellently, publish, etc., I will be competitive for a top PhD afterward? Gonzaga has placed a few students in ranked programs over the years, but its not exactly a majority. One last element to my situation is that, for logistical/family reasons, I would be able to start at Gonzaga a year earlier than anywhere else, as my partner is studying for her MM locally for another two years. Ergo a decision to hold out for top MA options would mean I have to wait even longer to move forward, becoming more “non-traditional” by the month. However, I could potentially use that time to take coursework, seek publication for my writing sample, etc. What's the best move? Thanks for any input!