SocialWaiter

Going by the limited info on your situation, if I was in your position, I would lean toward University X. I understand your reasoning behind starting fresh at a new school, but you yourself said it would be convenient to take classes at University X rather than move across country just for summer classes. Plus, you said there's less time to study at the new school, so it seems you're more likely to do better (i.e. get A's) at University X. If you do well, you can make a stronger case that your low GPA was an anomaly. When they look at your transcripts, instead of your most recent grades being poor, at least you can have those summer classes that show you recovered and finished stronger. If you show improvement, maybe that will indicate to schools that you're not a quitter and you turned things around. Regarding applications, based on the few I've encountered, some do (and some don't) ask for academic probation/dismissal/standing and an explanation either in the application or in the SOP / PS. Once again, it depends on the school/program. I've seen applications ask for overall total GPA and some also ask for GPA per institution. Whatever you decide, good luck with summer classes and applications.

Based on their info sheet, in-state tuition is approximately $16,000. (So about $8,000 per year).

If you don't find anyone in your cohort, my ex gf is in the program and she's friendly--so if you want, I can ask her. She's on campus (for classes) on Tue & Thurs. She probably would be willing to introduce you to her friends and answer any questions you may have. In regards to adventures...there's lots to do and see. We sympathize with all of you in the East Coast dealing with cold winters and excessive snow storms. So enjoy your visit to LA & San Diego. If you have access to a vehicle during your visit, here are some fun suggestions - http://www.discoverlosangeles.com/blog/100-free-things-do-los-angeles-free-activities

Thanks for sharing. btw, if anyone is curious, this is what one of the staff members said, We usually received between 400 and 500 applications, and the acceptance rate is between 24 and 30%. In terms of class size, we are looking to have an MSW Flex cohort of between 30 and 35 for 2015, and a Fullerton cohort between 70 and 80.

I spoke with one CSUF professor in late January, and based on what he said, it sounded like they start reviewing applications after the deadline (Jan 30). I could be wrong, but it seems they may not use rolling admissions, plus they don't have an Advanced Standing program, so that's one possible explanation as to why they haven't reviewed your application even though you submitted it really early. I could be mistaken, this is just my conjecture. The professor also said they may only do some interviews this year and they will try to notify applicants in March and April. Nothing is definitive or absolute...this is just from one professor.

From http://ssw.asu.edu/admissions-degrees/msw-folder/msw-information Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) Effective for Fall, 2010 admissions: Once admitted to ASU's MSW or Social Work PhD program, students who are from the following states are eligible to apply for a limited number of in-state (AZ resident) tuition rates through the Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP). Participating WRGP states include: Alaska, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota,Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. If you are a current resident of one of those states, you are eligible to apply for the program. Students are not required to demonstrate financial need. To be considered for the resident tuition rates, you will need to complete the WRGP Application Form found on the Graduate College website at http://graduate.asu.edu/forms. This form with all supporting documentation must be submitted to Graduate Admissions by the following deadlines: Fall Semester - June 1 Spring Semester - November 1 Summer - April 1

Hyronomus4, what you said regarding cities with large MSW programs makes sense. That probably holds true for popular & desirable cities too. Just curious, when you got your first job post-MSW, did you have prior social work experience? Or really relevant field work/internship? OP, in addition to scholarships, some programs/states offer stipends...so that may help reduce the financial costs. Here's some feedback from others that may be helpful: www.reddit.com/r/socialwork/comments/1xo1id/how_much_debt_did_you_have_after_getting_your_msw www.reddit.com/r/socialwork/comments/20w4x6/how_long_did_it_take_you_to_pay_back_your_school www.reddit.com/r/socialwork/comments/2szq2d/msw_postgraduation_advice www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/24gc91/iama_we_are_professional_and_published_resume/ch6yh0x

My impression is the Financial Aid department is seprate and independent (theoretically) of the Social Work/Admissions department. FAFSA sends out info to all the schools entered in your FAFSA application. So my guess is some schools start estimating & preparing financial aid packages to all applicants early on, rather than wait until hearing from the admissions commitee respectively. Which sort of makes sense because students typically want to make decisions on what schools they will attend, and it would help if the financial aid info was available sooner rather than later. The email includes the conditional "If you...are admitted to the UW...your application will go through a review process." So the financial aid department may not know yet if you're admitted, but they may want to get a head start to ensure your financial aid application is complete and ready (e.g. they have all the info they need, such as tax returns, etc...).

Yes, congratulations on being the first in your family to graduate college. You should be very proud of yourself. As previously mentioned, some people will recommend the loan forgiveness program. However, it's not a guarantee for everyone. https://studentaid.ed.gov/repay-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/charts/public-service You're smart & prudent for being careful with how much you want to borrow. I recently read other people's experiences online, and it's sad and heart-breaking - http://studentdebtcrisis.org/read-student-debt-stories Try not to be too disappointed or discouraged. From what I've read, it seems scholarships are pretty limited. You are not alone. Thousands of other MSW applicants/students wish there was more "free" financial aid available. But fortunately, it seems this will not deter you from pursuing your goals & dreams. In addition to what you already mentioned about UConn and Pittsburgh, another possibility is if there are other schools you're really interested in...like the ones you listed in Texas. Another person said s/he was going to move to Texas and work for a year to gain residency. So if you're not in a rush to start a MSW program, maybe you could find a state (such as Texas or another warm-weather state) and work for a year. Working will help you pay off your undergrad loans while gaining valuable experience for your application. And after a year, you will have residency and qualify for in-state tuition, saving you more money. From what I've seen, out-of-state tuition is pretty expensive for many schools. Regarding getting a job out-of-state. Based on what I've read...it's not impossible, but it's challenging.

Congratulations on getting into Smith! In the news, we often hear about the common occurance of college debt and Americans dealing with high credit card bills and personal bankruptices...so it's great you're being responsible in planning and doing your due dilligence. My opinion is this is one of those things that is different for everyone. For some, 40K debt may not be big deal, and some graduates may have successfully dealt with. While for some others it's a struggle, that 40K debt turns out to be detrimental and a serious hardship. Some of my friends got their MSW from USC, and for them, 90K in loans was worth it to them. Suum cuique. Somebody else wrote a really insightful post regarding brand name, prestigious schools being comparable to designer shoes/handbags (I forget which one)...it really is subjective and up to a person to determine if it's worth spending a lot of $ for a prestigious luxury item compared to something basic and adequate. If you haven't done so already, maybe do the math...calculate an average expected salary, and figure out how long it will take for you to pay off loans after you graduate. Keep in mind accrued interest and the lost opportunity cost (trade-off) of the money saved from the other school (Catholic?) that you could use for other things like saving for a house, car, etc.... And maybe ask yourself, can you be a happy, effective, and successful social worker if you went to other school instead? Is Smith's program worth the extra cost? For some people, it will be....education & training, networking & connections, job prospects, etc... These other message threads may give you a more helpful perspective: Good luck with your decision! Edited to add: Here's what someone else posted: My two cents: I only applied to cheaper State schools because as an individual who already struggled to pay off 25k for an undergrad at UCLA, I am now very afraid of getting more into debt. In addition, I scared the crap out of myself because I googled "student loan horror stories" and read THOUSANDS upon thousands of sad tales regarding the debt trap that hopeful students fall into and can't crawl out. I will be turning 29 soon and I currently have a negative net worth -- which frankly sucks. My hope is to graduate as soon as possible with minimal debt so I can start building my life, saving for retirement, etc. I really don't think pricey out-of-state or brand name schools matter much in this field, unless of course the individual has lofty goals of going into top management or academia. From what I hear, experience and individual capabilities matter more in getting a good job. MSW's really don't make much money and I cringe at the estimated 45k (undergrad+grad) loans that this degree will cost me. In response to the first poster, 50k max is probably the most I'll pay for an MSW. No more. So yeah, if you have time, google "student loan horror stories" and not to scare you, but maybe that will offer additional perspective.

I'm not "in the profession," but if you're open to suggestions, consider: 1. Reading this - http://www.uni.edu/~gotera/gradapp/stmtpurpose.htm 2. If you have time, try this book - http://www.amazon.com/Graduate-Admissions-Essays-School-Choice/dp/1580088724 I bought a used version for a penny. Or, there's a new version - http://www.amazon.com/Graduate-Admissions-Essays-Fourth-Edition/dp/1607743213 3. Some social workers on Reddit seem helpful....maybe try contacting the people who responded in the following: http://www.reddit.com/r/socialwork/comments/2pf90i/msw_statement_of_purpose http://www.reddit.com/r/socialwork/comments/2keheu/anyone_willing_to_look_over_my_personal_statement http://www.reddit.com/r/socialwork/comments/1lsbax/applying_for_an_msw_program_can_someone http://www.reddit.com/r/socialwork/comments/2pwbq0/personal_statement

I agree with you. When I researched schools, I also sensed SDSU is very selective in "weeding people out" and assumed their rigorous requirements probably meant their program is robust and competitive. You mentioned acceptance rates. I respect schools that keep their cohorts reasonably sized so class size is manageable and students can foster a personal relationship with professors. You are right...this site is a great sounding board. Someone else wrote (paraphrasing) that it doesn't matter where exactly one goes, as long as its a credited school. In general, it makes sense and is probably true that some jobs only care about a graduate from a legitimate MSW program. But realistically, where one goes to school has pragmatic significance. I could be wrong, but I think for initial jobs for new graduates, being local is advantageous. Like you said, forming connections with local agencies/non-profits/charities, networking, etc... all helps. If for example someone graduated from a "far-away" school, if s/he is applying to jobs, how practical would it be to go for an interview? Sure, phone and web-cam/Skype interviews may be possible, but local applicants may have an advantage to in-person interviews. This is based on what I read from http://www.reddit.com/r/socialwork/comments/2szq2d/msw_postgraduation_advice Attending a school outside LA (like SDSU) doesn't exclude or prevent you from getting a job in LA, but I can see how some benefit from attending a nearby MSW program. Someone else wrote that HR managers and agencies probably form positive impressions if they have previous hires who attended the same school. Someone else posted on this forum that it's not just the school that matters, but the person...what you make out of it and how much work you put into it helps determine your future success. A girl I'm dating is in the U$C MSW program, and I'm nervous for her because of her loans once she graduates. My opinion is just because she and her classmates attend a "famous" school like USC, it doesn't necessarily guarantee anything, let alone a good after she/they graduate. Anyhow, it seems like you're weighing everything and taking everything into consideration...so you'll be fine with whatever you decide. Not everyone would find this credible or worthwhile, but maybe you might be curious: http://www.ratemyprofessors.com/search.jsp?queryBy=schoolId&schoolName=San+Diego+State+University&sid=877&queryoption=TEACHER&dept=Social+Work# http://www.ratemyprofessors.com/search.jsp?queryBy=schoolId&schoolName=California+State+University+Long+Beach&sid=162&queryoption=TEACHER&dept=Social+Work http://www.ratemyprofessors.com/search.jsp?queryBy=schoolId&schoolName=California+State+University+Los+Angeles&sid=157&queryoption=TEACHER&dept=Social+Work

The CSULB info meeting gave a general overview of their program. The director, Dr. Meyer-Adams, presented the program pretty well. She mentioned some highlights and strengths of the CSULB program without being arrogant. I liked that she was respectful of other MSW programs. My impression is all three programs are good...which probably explains why you applied to them in the first place. Some people care about rankings, and supposedly SDSU is ranked higher. Many people view San Diego as a desirable and attractive location...the beaches are beautiful...there's less traffic, etc.. Plus, it genuinely seems like a strong program. This may not matter, but they require the GRE while CSULA and CSULB do not. Plus, SDSU explicitly requires a certain # of hours of volunteering (500 hours) AND proof of volunteering while CSULB and CSULA do not. These two things may not mean much, but it could be viewed as a positive reflection of their high expectations. Something mentioned in the CSULB meeting is all the nearby MSW programs share many of the same agencies. So that may mean a lot of competition among MSW students from CSULA, USC, UCLA, CSUDH, CSULB, etc.... I don't know, but my guess is you may have more options (less competition) for your top choice(s) of field placement in San Diego. Lastly, if you haven't already, maybe visit SoCal during a weekend. For example, you can visit CSULA and CSULB on a Saturday and then drive to San Diego on Sunday. Maybe visiting the campuses and the respective city/area can give you a better sense/feel of which school is right for you. Cheers!

Historically, it seems March is when some are notified. http://www.thegradcafe.com/survey/index.php?q=ucla+social+welfare http://www.thegradcafe.com/survey/index.php?q=ucla+social+work

It was a brief overview of social work and an introduction to their MSW program (the differences, field placement, background, application process, etc...). It was a meeting for those interested in applying to their MSW program. If you're asking about the other meeting, the one they mentioned that is in March, is intended for those who plan on being in their Advanced Standing program. My memory isn't the best, but I think they said the orientation meeting is early so they can begin getting students ready...not just with classes...but I think they said they want to meet students to get them prepared for assigning field placement. But don't quote me on that...I'm sure Lisa or Dr. Meyer-Adams will send you more info if you decide to accept their admissions offer. Regarding CSUDH, based on what others have said from previous years, it seems (in general), CSUDH can sometimes take a while to send out admissions decisions. They use rolling admissions, so one factor is how early you submitted your application. If you got into CSULB, then most likely, you'll probably get into CSUDH too. Congratulations!

Yeah, it probably depends on the school. For example, at a meeting last month for Cal State Long Beach, they said they try to finish decisions on Advanced Standing applications earlier because of an important orientation meeting in March. Whichever school(s) you applied to, you probably will hear back soon. Good luck.

In last month's CSULB information meeting, they said their MSW program is very competitive and in recent years, they received approximately 1100 - 1200 applications, and if I heard correctly, they said they admit around 230 or 250. So unfortunately, it seems they may not have room for hundreds of qualified applicants. As mentioned previously, some schools look at additional factors (work & volunteer experiences, LORs, SOP, GRE, etc...), so don't give up. If you're open to suggestions...maybe consider taking classes at a community college in Virginia that offers online classes. Some schools look at your last 60/90 units, and you can raise your GPA that way. Assuming Virginia is your current state of residence, tuition should be reasonable for in-state residents. Online classes are convenient because you can still continue your work schedule. Maybe take a psychology, sociology, or other GE class that is relevant to social work. And as much as you're set on the two schools mentioned, maybe consider if you can achieve your goals & dreams and be happy if you attended another MSW program. So in addition to CSULB and Long Island, maybe also apply to other schools to give yourself some options. In addition to out-of-state schools, what about programs in Virginia? I don't know if out-of-state tuition is an issue for you..but regardless, whichever school you ultimately decide on, it seems like you're motivated, determined, driven---so please don't feel discouraged or disappointed. Stay strong and believe in yourself. You can do it and you will do it. p.s. If you are opent to acredited MSW programs in Virginia or elsewhere, this may help you search for schools by state - http://www.cswe.org/default.aspx?id=17491

Can you elaborate? Why are extra letters so horrible? Is it because schools receive hundreds of applications and have enough to read as is? Or is it perceived as unfair to other students who just submitted three? Or is it viewed as not following instructions? Or something else? Thanks!

I could be wrong...my impression is for those who apply early, like you said, if they are stellar, then they usually receive an early decision of acceptance...while those who are less stellar are probably put aside (like pending/maybe status) until all other applications are reviewed after the deadline. And according to one person from this discussion, he said UT "doesn't have a hard cap on the number of applicants they accept. they're more of the mindset of, "we take all the best applicants and make it work."" And if anyone is curious, according to the Admissions Director at UT, she said they receive approximately 400 applications with an admission rate of roughly 50% for the fall semester and 60 applications for the spring with an admissions rate of just under 50%. The programs in Denver and Austin both seem like great programs. In addition to the typical things that factor in a decision (what school you're leaning toward, concentrations offerred/available, tuition/costs, etc...) maybe something else to consider is where you want to work after you graduate. From what others have posted, the consensus appears that it doesn't matter where you go, as long as it's a credited school, you can theoretically get a job anywhere. In my opinion, I think that's more applicable to those with social work experience. Generally speaking, for new MSW graduates who are looking for their first job, my guess is agencies will lean toward applicants who graduated from a local program they are already familiar with versus someone from an out-of-state school. So if you see yourself working & living in Denver/Colorado, then DU makes sense. If Austin/Texas seems appealing, then UT makes more sense. If you plan on working/living somewhere else, then never mind. This discussion is insightful - www.reddit.com/r/socialwork/comments/2szq2d/msw_postgraduation_advice Whatever you decide, all the best to you. Cheers.

Hopefully everything works out and you get in. I'm relatively new to the social work field and MSW, but I remember seeing that UM is highly ranked and respected. I sincerely hope you and others all are accepted. Cheers.

Maybe this will help ---> http://bit.ly/15Rp9o0

USC: How many students are accepted? We enroll approximately 525 new students in the MSW program each fall across all four of our locations. Source - http://sowkweb.usc.edu/admissions/master-of-social-work/admissions-faq UCLA: How many students are admitted to the MSW program annually? What percentage of applicants are admitted? The Department admits approximately 100 students to the MSW program each year. This is about 20-25% of the applicant pool. Source: http://luskin.ucla.edu/content/faq-prospective-students

Things may be different for where you live, but from my research, in-state schools tend to be a better deal vs. private & out-of-state schools. There's another thread in this forum where someone makes some really good points. For example, in California, some Cal State Universities are around $16,000 for 2 years (tuition). University of California (Berkeley and UCLA) can be closer to $42,000. Private schools can be $40,000 and up. USC is around $92,000 from what I remember. The out-of-state schools I looked at were around $40,000 - $60,000+. You should contact the schools you're interested in for more details...some financial aid is available (scholarships, tuition reimbursement, etc..), but my guess is they are limited. Some require you to commit to working for a certain state agency 1-2 years. Someone else mentioned in another post some really good points. If you were going to med school, law school, business school, etc...then your ROI makes sense to go to a prestigious, expensive program. But if you're going for social work, you have to be realistic. It's up to you to decide how much debt you want to be in after you graduate. Regarding statistics...some schools post info on their website regarding acceptance rate and number of applicants. If they don't, try contact the respective admissions officer from a school. I emailed a few schools and they gave me accurate numbers....such as one Cal State last year received over 1,200 applicants and only accepted around 250. Another school I asked said they get 400 applicants and only accept 100. Another big school said they got around 600 applicants and accepted nearly half. So contact a school and hopefully they'll give you some info to help you decide how many schools you should apply to and what your chances are. Good luck.

Maybe find something that appeals to what you want to help with in the future. For example, if you're interested in helping the elderly/seniors, maybe find a nearby nursing, retirement, or convalescent home. Many hospices want volunteers too. If you want to help kids, maybe try a tutoring program, children's hospital, after-school program, or DCFS http://dcfs.co.la.ca.us/community/volunteer.html Maybe also try Google http://www.volunteermatch.org http://www.laworks.com http://www.meetup.com/LAVolunteer http://losangeles.craigslist.org/search/vol Even though you're applying for 2016, look at the applications of the schools you're interested in. Many 2015 applications should be available on a school's MSW website. You don't have to pay anything to access their application. Some schools strongly recommend 1-2 years of volunteer experience. And on their applications, you'll see they want you to list how regularly and consistently you volunteered...for example, they'll ask how many hours per week you volunteer. So if you're serious, maybe find one thing you can volunteer at for a decent amount of time...plus you increase your chance of having someone write you a strong letter of recommendation since they know you and you aren't just some one-time volunteer but a regular, dependable, and reliable person. You have a lot of time, so you have an advantage to prepare early. Look over the 2015 applications, what they require, what they ask for, etc..., and that should better get you ready to know what to do once you start on 2016 applications. Good luck.