Hina

Has anyone heard of anything like this for MC/MPA students? I just wanna make sure I’m not missing any fun events!

I applied for MC/MPA (not Mason) and received admission but no funding. Undergrad major in government, minor in business from University of Texas at Austin with a 3.5 gpa. Have worked in nonprofit/government sector for 11 years - started off in Thailand, then Bangladesh, then Houston, and now DC. My focus has been financial inclusion for disenfranchised communities (microfinance, financial literacy, etc). Have held leadership positions for the past 5+ years (Executive Director and Senior Program Director). Didn’t take the GRE. Hope that helps!

Thank you! So sorry to hear you didn't get in - hope you reapply next year! Just for context - I didn't submit a GRE score with my application and I have 11 years of work experience (all at domestic and international nonprofits). Also, random side note -- I'm also Pakistani! So nice to meet a fellow Pakistani on here

I'm not in the Mason program - just the regular MC/MPA! No funding but honestly, I'm just happy I got in! haha

I applied in 2015 for the MPP program and didn't get in, and reapplied for the MC/MPA this year and received admission. In my case, I just have a lot more leadership experience now (Executive Director of a local nonprofit, Program Director of a national nonprofit, etc.)

Got into the MC/MPA program and still in a state of shock. I keep looking at the admission letter just to make sure I read it correctly Any other MC/MPAers here? Would love to connect!

Yep, I can only see 2 and 4 as well, neither of which is applicable to me. Is anyone able to access 1 and 3?

@gradschoolgrad - thanks for this input! It's extremely helpful. I just realized I had stated that I was applying for the MPP program for HKS, but I actually applied to MC/MPA (I applied for MPP in 2014). Are you familiar with the MC/MPA program? Would I be a competitive candidate for that program? I'm drawn to the caliber of people in that program and the connections I would build. It's really disappointing to hear that large orgs like UN, World Bank, etc will be tough to get into unless I start from the bottom (which I really would like to avoid). So I guess that route is out. If I do end up starting a non-profit, it would be have to a be a side gig at first, so that I can continue to have income coming in from a full-time job. Right now, it seems like the best route would be to aim for C-suite position at an international development org. Ideally, I'd want to work on financial literacy in Pakistan but that seems to narrow of a focus. Would it be hard to find such a specific role? Thanks again for all your help!!

Hi everyone! I'm 33, working as a director for a non-profit in DC, and applying for mid-career programs (bc I'd like to continue working while going to school and would like to network with folks that are in executive roles). I've already received admission into Columbia SIPA's EMPA program. but am waiting to hear back from MC/MPA at Harvard Kennedy School. Here is a little background -- Applied to: Applied to the MPP at HKS Applied and Admitted to EMPA program at SIPA (applied for Spring 2021 start, but I'm differing to Fall 2021) In 2014, I applied and was admitted to JHU SAIS, Georgetown SFS, Columbia SIPA, NYU Wagner. I was rejected from Harvard Kennedy School and Yale Jackson Institute. Undergrad Institution: University of Texas at Austin Undergrad Major: Government with a minor in Business from the McCombs School Undergrad GPA: 3.51/4.0 GRE: Didn’t submit GRE scores - wasn't required for either program Quant Background: Both schools required a quant resume. Since the last time I took quant classes was 11+ years ago, I mostly focused on how I've been using quant methods at work (which I do quite frequently with analyzing data and managing our orgs budget) Relevant Work Experience: Lots of work experience: 1.5 years in Thailand working on the program side for an NGO that provides vocational opportunities to orphans. 1.5 years in Bangladesh working on the program side for a microfinance org. 1 year in DC working for a microfinance org (traveled to Philippines for work. Worked with Muhammad Yunus (founder of microfinance) in this role. 4 years at a state government organization in Houston that worked to revitalize low-income areas. Served at Program Manager for a year and then was promoted to Executive Director. Managed a budget of 3.5M and worked actively with state and local politicians. 3.5 years at a national nonprofit that supports families in getting out of poverty through financial and career coaching. Started off as the Program Director and was promoted to Senior Program Director, Strategic Partnerships in Oct 2020. Languages: Fluent in English and Urdu. Proficient in Hindi, Guajarati, and French. Strength of LOR: LOR's from my current supervisor, my previous supervisor, and a City Councilman that I worked closely with. Hoping all of them were strong. Future Goals: I love my current job and would love to continue to work in the financial literacy space. Ideally, I'd want to focus on financial literacy in South Asia (where my family is from). I'd either want to work for a large org (UN, World Bank, etc). get a C-suite role at a small org, or start my own non-profit. QUESTIONS! Please help! 1.) I've always wanted to get a masters and right now feels like the right time (bc my work is extremely flexible) but will a masters help me get to where I want to go? 2.) Is there anywhere else I should consider applying given my experience and goals? 3.) I like that SIPA is located in NY and has ties with the UN. Anyone know how strong these ties are? 4.) What are other factors I should be considering when comparing SIPA and HKS? 5.) Any other advice would also be greatly appreciated

Hi everyone, I recently got promoted at my work, and now I'm desperately looking for a Program Manger to assist me. I know this isn't a job posting site, but I thought I'd give it a shot. Anyway below is a bit about the organization and the position: The Greater Southeast Management District is seeking a full-time Program Manager for a 4-6 month contract position. The Greater Southeast Management District is a public entity of the State of Texas created by State Representative Garnet Coleman in 2001. The District collects assessments from commercial properties in order to implement programs in Local Mobility Improvements, Visual Improvements, Public Safety, and Business and Economic Development. Program Manager Responsibilities The responsibilities of the Program Manager include, but are limited to, the following: a. Develop project proposals for the Transportation Committee, Visual Improvements Committee, Public Safety Committee, Business and Economic Development Committee, and Marketing Committee. b. Manage logistics of project implementation and RFP processes. c. Stay abreast of the status of each program for each Committee. d. Manage 10 contractors and consultants to ensure successful implementation of program areas. e. Monitor right of way maintenance, upkeep, and general condition on a weekly basis. f. Coordinate and manage GSMD website content manager and writer. g. Coordinate creation of content for information flyers, business directory, and other promotional and informational documents. h. Conduct monthly meetings with the Bike Patrol and Constables to ensure hot spots are being addressed. i. Assist the Interim Executive Director with various tasks on an as needed basis. Preferred Qualifications Candidate should have a Bachelor degree in Public or Business Administration or closely related field. Candidate should have knowledge or experience of public/private urban redevelopment and local government. Previous experience with program management is highly desirable. To be successful in this management role you will need excellent communication skills, attention to detail, good presentation skills and strong problem solving abilities.

Hi everyone, I'm in a tricky situation and was hoping to get some of your input. My boss resigned about a month ago and the BOD at my organization made ME the Interim Executive Director (hooray!). There's a strong chance this may turn into a permanent position. It's at a local government agency that does socio-economic development in a low-income area of Houston. I've been working here for about 1.5 yrs and am really loving it, especially since I got promoted. HOWEVER, I did apply to grad school hoping to get back into international development at some point (my passion and love). I got into a lot of great schools, but I'm worried about a few things: 1. Money, money, and more money: school is expensive. I'm young-ish (28), and right now I make about $85k and will probably get a significant raise if I become permanent ED. I know making this kind of money out of grad school (and while working in international development), will be very difficult. Additionally, I'd be taking on more debt to do it. Also, I come from a low-income family and making enough to help support my family is very important to me. 2. Leadership opportunities: this position just fell into my lap, and I'm not sure I'd get an opportunity like this again after grad school. Should I just ride it out and try to move into international development without a masters at some point? If I do end up going back to school, Georgetown MSFS is my top choice. I'd be doing a dual degree with an MBA. Any and all advice and suggestions would be greatly appreciated! I know I'm in a great position, but I really want to make the right decision. Thanks for your help! And congrats to everyone who got into great programs!

My acceptance letter said -- "Please click here to respond to this offer of admission by May 1, 2015. A $500 non-refundable deposit is required by this date in order to ensure your place in the program." There's a good chance I might not go back to school, so I might be declining unfortunately That might free up space for you though!

So just to clarify, my e-mail said -- "In your first and second years, you will receive $ 8,000 to be applied toward tuition in Fall 2015, Spring 2016, Fall 2016 and Spring 2017." According to the person in the admissions office, that means $8k/semester, $16k/year....So a total of $32k over the two years. Hope that helps clear things up!

The mystery has been solved...it's per semester! Just called the office

That fellowship letter was so unclear. Not sure if it's $8k/semester or $8k/year, which is a huge difference. Has anyone already called and asked? If not, I'll call tomorrow. Congrats to everyone that got in!!

On their website it says they will be sending out e-mails when the decisions are posted online. Keeping my fingers crossed!!

I applied for the MPA-DP program as well. Anxious to hear back!

Hi asseenontv, I also applied for the Payne Fellowship this year! I've been involved in the microfinance sector for a few years, so I applied for the Private Enterprise Officer. From the website, it looks like finalists will be notified at the end of February. Fingers crossed for good news!!

Caroline, I can relate to your worries. I come from a low-income family and am also first generation. As MathCat said, I wouldn't worry too much about your GPA. There are so many different parts of an application, and from my research, GPA isn't going to get you into a school or keep you out (unless it's REALLY low). The great thing is that you are thinking about this early, and you have time to change components of your ungrad experience and your extra-curriculars to set you up for success in the future. I loved being a Government major, but if I could do it again, I would try to do a double major to have a fall back career option as well. I minored in business but I think majoring in Business would have been a great asset for the future. My brother (who majored in Business) was a consultant in the federal practice at his firm and made great money. If you are in the business school, large firms will usually come to recruit at your school and make finding a well paying job easier. I've been out of school for about 5 years and work for a state government agency. I love my job but it's in the mid-range on the pay scale. I'm now applying for grad school to get a MA and MBA dual degree. I'm going to shoot for federal government jobs and/or consulting jobs in the federal practice. I completely understand your worries. Being first general and from a low-income family is very tough. When I first told my parents I no longer wanted to be a lawyer, and would rather work in the public sector for a fraction of the salary, they were not happy. But I do think there are ways to have the best of both worlds, a good stable income and a job you love. Anyway, let me know if you'd like to chat more. I'd love to help in any way I can!

Great question. I'd be interested to find out the answer to that as well.

Hi informatives, I did my SAIS interview in early October, and I think it went quite well (fingers crossed!). Like you said, it was with an 2nd year MA student. Mine lasted a little over an hour, and some of the questions were what you would expect -- Tell me about yourself, why SAIS, etc. But my interviewer definitely threw in quite a few curve balls as well. I can't remember the exact questions but I do remember him asking me some unexpected (and quite interesting actually) questions. Overall, I enjoyed the experience and I'm hoping it will hold at least some weight in my application. And reinventoneself, the interview is optional. If you don't live in DC (or don't travel there often to see your boyfriend like I do), then I believe you can schedule to have the interview over Skype. I hope that helps! Good luck!!

Isaiki, I'm actually applying to the SAIS/INSEAD dual degree program! I can't decide if I want to do INSEAD France or Singapore though. Are you applying for that program as well?

Thanks for your feedback, everyone! I'm planning on taking the GRE again in a couple weeks, but am worried I might get nervous and bomb it again! :/ Fingers crossed I guess!

Hi Everyone! I'm applying for IR programs for Fall 2015 and desperately need some advice. I took my GRE today and bombed it. I was scoring around V-160 and Q-159 on my practice tests, but I think my nerves got the best of me and I somehow walked out of the test with a V-150 and Q-151 (whaa!?). I'm planning on retaking it in a few weeks but am wondering if anyone has insight on applying to top programs with a low GRE score? Here's some info on my background: Undergrad Major: Government, minor in Business Cumulative GPA: 3.52 (business GPA was 4.0) Work experience: -1 year working as the Program Manager for an education NGO in Thailand -2 years working for a microfinance organization in rural Bangladesh doing research and initiating a new women's development program -Currently working as the Program Manager at a governmental agency that does social economic development in low income areas. I've initiated a microfinance program at this current organization, as well as several other programs. Been with this agency for over a year. Career goals: I'm planning on focusing on international development in grad school, and would eventually like to start a development agency in South Asia (not sure exactly what yet, but probably in the microfinance arena). I have very strong letters of recommendations from the former dean of the public policy school at my undergraduate institution, and a professor I worked closely with. If during my next GRE I'm unable to make a high score, should I forget about applying to the top programs? Currently my list consists of Georgetown SFS, GW Elliot, SIPA, SAIS, and Yale Jackson. I'm also applying to a few MA/MBA dual degree programs, since my career focus is microfinance. Any and all advice is greatly appreciated!

I'm applying as well. I was planning on applying for the MPA/ID but it seems like it's tougher to get admission into than the MPP program. What are you applying for?