Over the past year, I applied to Ph.D programs in Education Policy. One of the programs that I was highly interested in was UPenn's. I figured that with my application and experience, it might be a stretch. I was rejected from each doctoral program I applied to, but was accepted to the M.S.Ed program in Education Policy at UPenn and was awarded $13,500 in merit-based scholarship and the potential for $10,000 for a Dean's Scholarship.
Rejection is a bummer, but this offer creates a new opportunity. I am partially unfamiliar with their Master's program in Ed Policy, and this merit-based scholarship still leaves me on the hook for $29k in tuition. Would going to UPenn be worth it? Is this just a really soft rejection? Can I scholarship and assistantship $29k down to something manageable with loans and extra employment?
I'm currently a teacher with five years of experience and a Master's degree in teaching. I'm looking to transition my career to research and policy in my field. My ultimate dilemma is whether this is a worthwhile opportunity to make that change. Or am I better suited performing post-mortem on my applications, staying at my current job, and trying again next year?
Like I'm sure you're used to hearing: any advice would be appreciated!