Tom Richardson

ok, thanks guys. When I first read his email I read the words I wanted to see and saw it as a silver bullet. Luckily I took the time to shape my answer and I am trying not to count my chickens before they hatch. It still would make life a hell of a lot simpler! Repatriate, I am assuming that renumeration changes by university, but should TA/RA's expect to recieve anything more than a fee waiver? Zilch, not wanting to rub it in but how long was it before you recieved your rejection letter? As I mentioned, I'm a Brit, and completely clueless as to the whole US system. Right now I'm looking for any opportunity to find funding, but fast realising I am 6 - 12 months behind schedule.

I am filling out a financial aid form for my, academically, first choice grad school. One of the questions asks whether I have requested financial aid to attend other institutions. The British part of my brain things I should leave this blank, as in the UK for the most prestigious universities if your not 100% focused on their courses your not an appropriate candidate. However, I will probably choose which ever insitutions offers me the best funding / TA or RA package. Will my first choice school be motivated by the competition of other choices and try and offer me the best package they can?

I have been contacting every man and his dog for funding, pretty much with no luck (see post on Brit Needing Funding). However, a Prof. at one of the grad-schools I have applied to has suggested that he thinks that I have the sort of background that would be of benefit to the Institute. Although most Research Fellowships are reserved for doctorate students some go to MAs. He has taken my CV and is going to investigate the opportunity further. I am totally clueless (Europe has a very different approach / mentality to these things) and not sure if this is a good sign or somebody just being polite. If you were given an unsolicited offer of support for a fellowship, how would you react?

I am a British Citizen looking to study in the US. As a non-US citizen I am barred from most funding, whilst choosing to study outside of the EU bars me from most European funding. I am way too late (12months) for Fulbright. Any suggestions on people to contact or methods of funding?