drpepper711

Is it possible? What tools would you suggest. This is not offered at my school

Many of these are funny. But what about what one of your truly jackass, ignorant relatives say. This is one I got, "Are you never going to get a job? Isn't that enough school?' Others: "When are you going to get married? You should get married first then start you PhD." Extremely limited contact with family is definitely one of the perks of the PhD for me.

Wow, that is exactly the answer I needed. Thanks!

What are your thoughts on completing courses from other departments based on a course outline if you are really interested in that course, but the particular subject is not offered at your university? I'm doing a PhD in economics.

- Does adviser really matter? I hear they are usually very hands off? How about if I can't find someone who is expert in my field? - What if there is lack of courses that is related to student's research? - Is it a student's initiative, ability to self teach/research that is most important? Any other comments would be great. THanks.

working for two months as RA then hoping to work as intern in field related to my discipline.

ask the grad secretary rather than coordinator, they are more inclined to reply.

$25 k/year would be considered slightly above avg I think.

Thanks a lot for your response TakeruK...very helpful!

I was late for apps and graduate co-ordinator told me you will be considered in 2nd rounds, but its looking rough. That was last Friday. The committee met this Monday and the Acting Chair emailed me this morning saying come by office on Monday. What does it all mean? Btw I did my masters here as well.

I think this issue should be judged on a case by case basis. From the information you have provided, it seems this can have a negative effect on your image. I wouldn't think to a large degree, but you never know. Is everything this group do very conspicuous Can't you work 'behind the scenes?' If you are really bothered by it, you can look at other clubs or volunteer off campus.

Can't you just sit in on the course or audit it?

Duly noted.

For my field, most students continue research from their masters, which they had also continued from their bachelors. They already have significant knowledge about the specific topic they want to study. They have a strong network and familiarity with the region they are going to be doing their research.in. My masters research was unrelated therefore I will feel as if I am at a disadvantage and I have to 'catch up.' However, as many have mentioned, it may not payoff to think of research so early; that's my dilemma! I would have roughly 2 years for courses, after which I would start research.

How related do the chapters of a thesis have to be? Would you recommend specializing on one topic in one region with one methodology? or being more general? I know a person's passion may help determine this, but I am truly interested in a range of issues within international development. I am also considering job prospects.

Thank you for your response. How about travelling in the region I would like to work an talking to NGOs and government agencies about my research and my interests; networking with people in the field for when I do want to do research? The RA idea sounds great, however, unfortunately it will not be in my field. I am currently doing a GRA and although it is somewhat related to economics, it has nothing to with development. I do not know of any professors in my university that would conduct relevant research.

From what I understand, one can obtain a PhD, but it will only be worth something if you are able to make contributions to discourse. So how many PhDs actually get published and continue to do research? How many become 'forgotten?'

@ 0_o: No I meant doing my thesis research independently. Figuring out a topic after doing a ton of reading then starting my literature review.

The bachelors was somewhat different than the masters. I see that people tend to do their masters at a different place than undergrad, but it is common for people to do their masters and PhD at the same place. I can see the benefit from this, especially with course exemptions and stuff. Would I be at a disadvantage from doing this?

@ wtnsff: I am applying this year, but the grad coordinator said chances are slim to none for this year cause it is late. I actually looked back on the site and for the master application it says you have to attach a separate SOP, but it doesn't state this for the PHD program. Maybe they forgot to add it? I can't imagine the process would differ like this.

Thanks for your response Wtncffts. One other thought I had was if I do pick a topic, start a lit review, I can also focus all my coursework on a specific topic so it can contribute to my thesis.

Made a major mistake and submitted a 4 sentence, 91 word SOP. Am I screwed? I never thought it was a SOP. There was a blank field asking me what my interests are and my goals. I answered as succinctly as possible.

Sorry I may have been unclear. I meant if it looks like i will only get accepted into Sept 2014 program, should I start my thesis research now while I have a year to kill?

After much considerationI have decided to do a PHD in Economics and International Development, but now my application is too late for September admission. This means I have until Sept 2014 til I start. Would it be wise to start my thesis research right now? Do a literature review and do some field work? I already have a Masters in a related field.

After much considerationI have decided to do a PHD in Economics and International Development, but now my application is too late for September admission. This means I have until Sept 2014 til I start. Would it be wise to start my thesis research right now? Do a literature review and do some field work? I already have a Masters in a related field.