Kamisha

For me, I think the appeal of doing a second Master’s in the UK (note: I am getting an MS not an MA. Sometimes I accidentally use those terms interchangeably) is that it’s only a year long and it’s a different cultural experience. They are phenomenal programs, but distance ed isn’t really my thing. I thrive in classroom environments. Also, I don’t really want to spend more time out of a PhD program than absolutely necessary. I’ve never saved a village New bucket list item?

I probably could apply to all by the Mitchell scholarship, but I think the application deadlines have passed. I know Gates Cambridge is closed, but I’m not sure about Rhodes and Marshall.

You should definitely feel proud of getting into NYU’s MA program! They don’t offer that to just anyone! In terms of your question, “would you guys think that an acceptance last year to a good program means that I have a fair chance, with the application, of getting into a lower ranked program, with funding?" That’s a tough one to answer because I think it call comes down to “fit.” Clearly, you have the capabilities of hacking it, but I would say it’s always critical to make sure you are applying to schools with which your interests relate. A perfect application means little to a school who doesn’t see you as a “fit,” while a application packet with a few flaws will be bumped up if they do see you as working well in the program. I don’t know if that answers your question (or at least sheds a little light), but I wish you the best of luck!

It sounds like you and are soul sisters. I’m currently drinking tea from my Union Jack mug. Haha. The cost of UK programs is definitely what is holding me back. I actually was admitted to some UK programs for my MA and wanted to go desperately, but couldn’t scrounge up the funding, even though I was lucky enough to receive partial scholarships from a couple of places. I’m still heartbroken about it. I’ve avoided taking out student loans, but might do so next year if it comes to it. And you’re right--academia IS addictive. Even as I say I can’t imagine doing this again, I’m making notes on how to improve my portfolio. Isn’t there a term for loving torture? Masochistic? Hi, I’m an academic masochist. *Hand shake*

Yeah, that Subject Test is a pain and I don’t think it is representative of someone’s knowledge base. I’m graduating with my Master’s in English this semester, but if things go sour for me this year, I might go do a second MA in the United Kingdom in Film and Media Studies while online adjuncting for my current program (Bless them, they already offered me the job despite insisting that I’m not going to need to take them up on their offer. I really do attend a super supportive program). Hopefully that would make me more competitive for my specific field of study next year. Who knows though. The thought of doing this process again if it all goes sour....GAH. The pain. The torture. Do you have a backup plan? I’m sure you won’t need one. I have a good feeling about a few schools for you.

I think the largest question is that of “fit.” I’ve heard of some people getting into top programs with zero conference presentations and zero publications. I’ve also heard of people being admitted with low subject test and general test scores. I think everything on the list comes into play when a committee is evaluating your application. I would also add a fabulous writing sample related to your field of study and, unfortunately, undergrad/MA university “prestige.” These are just my two cents. To everyone who got into a top program this year: congratulations on your success!

I wanted to apply to Santa Barbara, but I bombed the subject test so I took it off my list. Haha. You are a better scholar than I am. I hope you get in! I really hope to hear good news from UC-Riverside. It’s my only California school left, too. Thus far, I have official rejections from 4 schools and implied rejections from 2 others (Vanderbilt and Irvine). 0/6 so far with 8 more to go. Oy vey. How I Presently Feel About Academia: Also, a little Frank Sinatra is sure to improve mornings.

I typically do, as well. Lately, though, it’s hard to get the motivation to work on my thesis after midnight. Right now, for example.... Curse you, GradCafe for being such a welcome distraction. Haha I think there needs to be a psychological term for “Thesis Induced Rage.”

You changed your picture, too! It’s beautiful.

Haha thanks I really appreciate that. I’m sure you will, as well. Or you’ll get the Fulbright, which would be equally awesome.

Thanks I did, actually. I did a summer internship (retail) in Key West, FL when I was nineteen. I took this on a sunset cruise in the Gulf of Mexico.

You’re going to get in. Have faith! I predict that you have your pick of programs in the end.

Wow, congrats on your success! That’s phenomenal. And thanks for the info!

I’ve reached my quota of positive votes, otherwise I’d like this. PS It looks like you and I think alike. We both applied to Duke, U Washington, U Oregon, and U Boulder. PS On the “Financial Aid” To-Do List, it shows whether all of your items have been received. Score.

I feel the same way! Fingers crossed for all of us.

I hope it means they are accepting us. Haha. Despejado, did yours update, as well?

Mine also has information under the Finance tab, though I don’t know how long its been there. Is it the FinAid Billing and Scholarship stuff?

CONGRATULATIONS!! You are wonderful. Can you say what time you received the email?

You’ll find the right fit, ShortStack51. It’s their loss!

I think you can make it, but I guess you just have to decide if you really want to. Have you thought about working while taking classes as a non-degree seeking student? I don’t know for sure, but I’ve heard that university’s look upon that favorably when apply for a program. I could be wrong, though. I just think I read that on here somewhere. Anyway, you are clearly bright and talented and kind and will no doubt be successful at whatever career path you choose to purpose. If you decide academia isn’t for you this year, that doesn’t mean you can never come back. That being said, I have faith that you’ll get into a program and that you’ll excel.

Thank you for your kind words. Congrats on your UC San Diego acceptance! I’m sure many more are headed your way.

Now if only Vanderbilt would offer the same courtesy.

Macguffin, you have the best screen name ever.

Does anyone have any insight as to UNC-Chapel Hill will start informing? I noticed last year they started sending out acceptances on January 31st..

Haha well the OP got one thing right: I am getting an MS rather than an MA. Sorry, though, no show. I’m a lover, not a fighter.