goldielocks

This is something I had not even considered. Thank you! I'll have to look into that.

Good to know, thank you!

Thank you. This is something I have only briefly looked into. I guess I'll be devoting some more time to figuring out the financial logistics of something like that.

[Removed at Poster's Request] Nonetheless, is there some way I can demonstrate my proficiency in each language before sending in my apps to PhD programs? For instance, is there a standardized test that most PhD programs will accept? I just want to prove that I am (going to be) capable of conducting research in my two languages. Many of my potential programs say that they expect students to demonstrate proficiency before enrolling in the PhD program. Forgive me if this is nonsensical. Advice is appreciated!

Thanks! I am actually unable to take summer courses due to employment obligations. But my French is coming back pretty quickly (thankfully, I studied it a few years ago). I was sad, too, because the community college in my city offers non-credit language classes that meet twice a week for only $120. Bummer!

Thanks! It's an MA in History. I'm happy with the decision.

Thanks for the advice! I am currently working on French and was planning on getting into German whenever I felt ready, but I may just wait until my lessons begin this fall.

Ah! I forgot about this thread! I decided at the last minute to take an offer for an MA at a very small university. So I guess that's what I'll be doing to prepare for applying for a PhD.

[Removed at Poster's Request] Has anyone else successfully learned a language independently? Or is anyone else in a similar boat? I ask because it's always nice to share tips, but also because this board seems to be dead as of late! Hope you are all enjoying your summer.

Well, per your second inquiry, I would think it best to contact the department directly, but only after carefully reading their website.

Well, I'm kind of pursuing both veins. This fall, I'm beginning an MA at a very small regional state university, in a department where there's only one or two faculty per broad. regional/thematic area. The required curriculum is very much geared toward attaining a broad historical knowledge. So I'll be getting a strong foundational knowledge of global history and research methods. But I'm also going to do at least two independent studies with the professor in my specialization, so that I can begin to develop a specific focus in my area as well. I'm hoping that will help me to get into a PhD program with a strength in my area of focus.

I just wanted to second the advice about programs that offer the MA but not the PhD—this is what my undergrad adviser told me.

[Removed at Poster's Request] Since I've been lurking on this board, I've noticed that this admissions season has been a little depressing. Congratulations to all who received offers! However, for the rest of us, or for those just getting started... why not get a conversation going for next season? After all, I'm sure I'm not the only one planning to use the next several months to prepare my applications! Who else is doing the same thing as me? What are you planning to do this spring/summer to strengthen your applications?

That would be great, thanks.

Congratulations to the University of Pittsburgh admit! I was wondering if you could tell me what your concentration is/who you were planning to work with? I applied for the MA program, and didn't hear anything. I'm guessing that means a rejection. Oh well, I suppose.