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whirledpeas13

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Everything posted by whirledpeas13

  1. Well I clearly should not reach out to this forum for support. I do not access this account on a computer, so I cannot see my signature. I am so sorry I don't obsessively come to forums and update my signature from the past application cycle. I was hoping to gain some solidarity from someone else who was going through culture shock -- students around here dress in expensive clothing and wear suits to class, and I have had a completely different experience with a few professors thus far -- or to hear from others who have felt similarly as a first year masters student. These are perceptions and feelings, not formalized accusations claiming causality. I am appalled that this thread has turned into bashing someone you know very little about while selectively reading my explanations.
  2. I know that came across very strong -- but believe me, when I interact with professors I am very much self-deprecating and passive. I try very hard not to offend people and to give them the benefit of the doubt. I came from a public, Midwest school and worked on three undergraduate research projects with faculty in separate departments, one of whom was the director of a prestigious center focused on international, interdisciplinary research. I understand busy professors. I also have taught, so I feel like I am not coming out of left field here. I also received a prestigious fellowship to find my MA, or I wouldn't be here. Maybe the culture between public and private institutions is different, but I DO expect a professor to treat me with courtesy, and I DO expect them to answer questions that were not covered in the readings. Especially given that in the case of Professor A, office hours followed immediately in the room next door, so it wasn't as though I was catching this professor at a bad time. Professor A elaborated extensively on the person immediately in front of me, but as soon as I said, "I'm an incoming MA student from program x" this professor quickly hurried me along. In this same class, one of the teaching fellows approached me after class (recently) and said that I had a really good question, and Professor A completely blew me off. It's not just my perception alone. In the case of Professor B, I asked a question related to theoretical definitions, which we had discussed in class. Professor B was comparing the differences between disciplines in their approach to determining the usefulness of thinking in terms of causality, explanation, interpretation, description, etc, which this professor listed on a spectrum. Other students had the same sort of confusion I had (another student from my program also said she didn't quite understand the distinctions). I certainly understood Professor B suggesting I come to office hours, but then strongly suggesting I drop the class altogether in the same breath was shocking. This professor repeatedly encouraged students from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines to join the class, but then is unwilling to answer a simple, foundational question for someone without a solid background in the discipline. In a discussion, participation oriented class with people truly from a variety of disciplines, I was surprised that this professor clearly favored students in the discipline at a much more advanced level. On a completely different note, I am getting along very well with my other two professors (related directly to my regional focus), but my program is interdisciplinary, and I am trying to gain training in social sciences in preparation for PhD work. Most methods/theory courses are explicitly restricted to first-year PhD students, so my options are very limited.
  3. I didn't go into detail before, so here's the backstory -- In 2 separate classes of mine (both of which are open to undergraduates and graduate students) senior professors have treated me with little to no respect. I find it rude and condescending, to say the least. One professor, during discussion, literally ignored my question during the q & a portion of class. The class is set up such that the four professors who teach the course spend the last 30 min of class sitting on a q & a panel, but when I posed my question, the senior professor took the mike, gave a very brief vignette that did not address my question, and then said, "okay, next question," without allowing the other professors to give their responses. This same professor, when I introduced myself 3 weeks ago after class, all but pushed me aside when he heard I was an MA student. While he spent time talking with students directly in front of me he very curtly said, "Come to my office hours." I went to his office hours (scheduled directly after class, btw), and he again spent his time talking with undergraduate students and disregarded my questions. In my other course (sociology), the professor encouraged students from diverse backgrounds an at varying levels to take her course, which I hoped would help provide a framework for my thesis, but she also treated me poorly from the beginning. I scheduled an appt. with her the first week of class, but she arrived 30 min late and only gave me 5 minutes of her time. I wanted to know if the course would align with my research goals and at my level, but she didn't even give me a chance to speak with her. I tried approaching her after class to ask a question about the course content this past week, and she told me to "make an appt." but also indicated that I should consider dropping the course. I was shocked at how condescending she was. She hasn't taken the time to hear my background at all, but simply makes baseless assumptions -- and her course is about inequality! I have never had problems with professors before. The way this prestigious professors are treating me is nothing short of infuriating. The sociology professor indicated very plainly that she had "other students" and didn't want to waste her time with me (ever). I really don't know why I am rubbing people the wrong way, or if it has nothing to do with me at all.
  4. I have just begun my first year coursework (at an Ivy League School), and I can't help but feel that the professors here focus more on undergraduate and PhD students. As an MA student, Professors have been so blunt to preclude me from taking their course (which are open to "diverse backgrounds and levels"). I've even been cut short and ignored. I'm getting really frustrated. Is this typical?
  5. Eigen, I'll clarify: the $24,000 included all required fees and tuition all of which is covered by NSF. At Harvard Health insurance is required, so that does include my health insurance payment. After I contacted the right people, my bill was waived. Clearly, we all have to be equally as informed as our contacts at our institutions. Of course universities are hoping to get paid despite this agreement, so they are just hoping they can drive someone to say, "oh, I'd rather just pay this than fight with an administrator over fine print" I don't know about the rest of you, but I simply can't pay for a graduate degree without this funding, so I choose to be informed.
  6. I made sure to deal with that fully before accepted my offer of admission (thankfully I was able to do that). That said, I have had an immensely stressful few weeks, and have had to remind my financial aid officer of the stipulations when I saw my "overdue" student bill, totally nearly $24,000, all required fees, mind you. I emailed a copy of the award letter, the change of institution approval, and I called the NSF contact at my institution (Harvard), to get everything sorted out. I have spent more time emailing and calling people and fighting just to receive the fellowship to which I am entitled. You should certainly do the same, tactfully, of course.
  7. I also have always been slightly bothered by "best," but more just as my own sign-off. I want to sound professional in all of my correspondences because of the stage that I am at in my academic career (entering MA student). I don't care for "sincerely" or "regards" either. I think they need to have something that modifies them. For instance, one could be thinking "with poor regards" or "with bitter regards." I prize accurate, sincere communication, so I usually leave just my name or say "Thank you," "warm regards," or in highly informal email communications or with a professor with whom I am very close I say "take care."
  8. First, congratulations! I will be entering an MA program in the fall with my 1 yr old. After I was officially accepted I shared this with my advisor to solicit his advice regarding funding and other opportunities. I would do the same with a pregnancy, but I would certainly wait until at least 8 weeks. 13 weeks and the chance of a miscarriage is almost trivial. Also, whether you have a supportive husband or partner coming along will make a huge difference! It is important to plan for pregnancy-related complications now, like pre or post term birth, swelling, nausea, bed rest... Etc! Best of luck. Stay strong.
  9. I would like to quickly weigh in. Pregnancy, for many, is long and hard. I have a 10.5 mo old, and when I was pregnant I was wry fatigued, nauseous, couldn't think straight, etc, etc. You will want to inform your Professors and anyone you work with professionally if it will affect your work. Simply let them know, ask for extensions, etc. I have been so encourages by the overwhelmingly positive responses I have received from my professors and advisor. It is a very complex situation to navigate, so don't do it alone!
  10. You actually would qualify as a first-generation student -- your parents would have to have a 4-year degree. It sounds like you really have some soul searching to do, but you really don't have to go it alone. Truly look into the McNair Scholars Program. Be honest. They are in the business of helping people. I am a Caucasian female, my mom has a beauty degree, but I am a McNair Scholar. You need some support right now, which is nothing to be ashamed of! I had many mini-crises in the past few years. You just need to learn the language of higher Ed and the job market, it is very bureaucratic! I would be happy to look over cover letters or your resume for you. I failed a lot at first, not because of who I was or what my potential was, but because I didn't know how to represent myself in the appropriate way. Now, I am going to Harvard with a full ride. It really is possible. Please don't be too discouraged. Feel free to contact me here or via a message.
  11. Have you looked into other resources at your institution? You strike me as a first-generation college student. What would you get your second BA in? It is NOT impossible to get into grad school with a low GPA, and I think it would serve you better than a second BA for your future. Look into ways to gain either teaching or research experience. Look into opportunities to teach via Upward Bound summer programs (only requires a BA). Also, if you are either an ethnic minority or first-generation student look into the McNair Scholars Program at your institution. Even though you've graduated, they will likely have some solid suggestions for you that are specific to your location. Don't give up! You can do it -- really. Give yourself a break and be kind to yourself. Discover your passion -- what is your ideal job? How can you get there? Who can you look to as a model for your own path?
  12. When you log in to fast lane there is an optional tab called "View Tenure Details/Request Tenure Change." First you have to accept
  13. I have been stalking this forum for the past several months, but I would like to share my results: Awarded!! (Im ecstatic!) Senior Undergrad E/E VG/VG E/VG Quick Question: I have submitted a request to change my proposed program. How long will it take to be approved? I'm just super nervous about anything going wrong during this process and am still in total disbelief and don't wont to go back to sleep in case I wake up and realize none of this happened!! Congrats to all other successful applicants!
  14. My plan for PhD is either Medical Anthropology or International Relations. I ideally would like to continue doing interdisciplinary work and research related to the Korean Diaspora, North Korean issues (very broad, I know), violence, trauma, resilience, memory, war, conflict, etc. I think you get the idea. As a RSEA student I intend to find a theoretical and methodological focus while continuing to advance my language skills. Since Harvard has arguably the best political science and anthropology programs I think it would be highly advantageous to pursue my master's degree there. I'm waiting to hear whether I have receive the NSF GRFP, as well as a funding offer from UW, but I think my choice is quite clear -- even if it means taking out a loan. As an undergrad I've incurred very little debt, as I have won many grants, scholarships, and fellowships, so I am eligible for very good loans if need be. I'm curious -- how would you all rank Harvard's RSEA program compared to UW's JSIS program? In the social sciences Harvard is far superior, but I have no rankings for these MA programs available.
  15. Budapestflower~ Yes, there was an acceptance letter posted 3/11.
  16. I'm inclined to say that this is exactly the kind of thinking that necessitates the feminist movement. I had my baby at the end of May, took 2 weeks to recover, and then began my summer research internship full time. My baby, of course, was and is my first priority, but my research and education is my passion. I make time for both. Communicate with her in a tactful, caring way that shows you are concerned about her well being -- not just your own progress. For that matter, you are fully capable of working ahead of schedule if finishing before August is your biggest concern. We are all human beings and life happens. It's always better to work ahead when possible. I mean even if she was not pregnant what would you do if she became horribly ill and was out for a few weeks? Plan for life to happen -- including babies.
  17. Oh absolutely! I would love to hear any insight you my have.
  18. I wanted to drop in real quick to say that I was the poster in the results section who was accepted into Harvard's RSEA program. I am actually at a conference and am not home, so I was incredibly grateful to have received a personal email from my POI. I am in Korea Studies. I did not receive a funding offer, but I am waiting on more news. I called home and my roommate told me that my official acceptance packet came in the mail a few days ago. I haven't checked the website yet. I imagine that means that all decisions have been made, but I wouldn't fret too much if you haven't received an offer -- you may be wait listed. I don't think it's typical to have a personal email, though. I was actually wondering if anyone knows of the placement rate for RSEA alumns or where they go. I was unable to find any information... But will certainly be inquiring when I have time.
  19. Does anyone know if the Jackson School of International Studies MA Korea Studies program would qualify? I have applied for NSF in anthropology PhD programs, but was accepted at JSIS and plan to accept. Should I receive the NSF can I switch to this program? I know "international Studies" is an approved field, but what about a specific area studies program? I also am expecting good funding at this program, but would love to "save" an NSF for future PhD studies... Any thoughts?
  20. Next~ I have been lurking on this thread as well. I am a Korea Studies scholar, accepted into UW's JSIS MA International Studies: Korea program today. I also applied to 4 phd anthropology programs and Harvard's Regional Studies -- East Asia AM program. UW's program is much better, so I'm 90% sure I will be accepting this offer. Waiting on funding and other admissions decisions. Best of luck everyone.
  21. What do you all know about the joint Berkeley-UCSF medical anth program? I see one acceptance?
  22. Anxiousanthro- I know sociocultural will be notified mid-February. I spoke with the gsd.
  23. As for Berkeley -- I applied to the medical anth program... Which apparently has a much later notification period. (early March!) :/ if anyone knows anything about that, plz plz let me know!
  24. Anthropologygeek-- really?? That's amazing. Did you go in with an MA? Are you sociocultural? Sounds like an anomaly -- but a VERY favorable one. Which program are you in?
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