[Fall 2016 Applicants]

On 11/8/2015, 6:33:41, Songbird222 said:

Basically, the majority of SESAME grad students (who do not secure outside funding) TA or teach coursework in order to pay their way through school. The fellowships promoted for this program are for grad students who are conducting research in mathematics, computer science, or technology-related topics. There does not seem to be guaranteed funding for grad students, but certainly the faculty advisers will try to help you find funding whenever possible. I am applying for external fellowships (NSF and Ford Foundation), and will look at fellowships/grants offered by UC Berkeley for its grad students (if admitted into the program). 

Exactly -- this is one of the few Science Education programs that is not for training teachers, which is what drew me to it as well! Can I ask what your STEM background is? Are you applying with a B.A./B.S. or M.A./M.S.? I am applying to this program with a B.A. in Biology.

Hi, Thanks for your reply!

I am currently doing bench research in molecular genetics in Boston. I have a BA in Biology as well! I am an international student, so unfortunately there aren't very many outside funding opportunities for me. 

I was wondering, when they say "students are expected to obtain at least master's-level competency in their mathematical or scientific discipline," do you know how specific the scientific discipline can get? For instance, can I get a masters in molecular biology? I ask because I didn't come across any faculty member whose research was Biology-related. 

(I don't know if we should be chatting someplace else!)

[HGSE 2016]

Hi everyone, 

I am interested in applying to the International Education Policy Program. My background, however, is in a totally unrelated field. I am currently working in a molecular neurogenetics lab doing bench research, but found myself getting more and more drawn to education. Besides some informal classes that I taught in my parent's school in Nepal, I don't really have any experience in the education field. GRE Scores: V: 163, Q:160. 

Should I wait for another year to gain some more relevant experience? Or will they trust me enough based on my theoretical ideas?

Also, what about the funding the program? Any way to apply for funding? Don't really want loans :'(

 

Thanks for your help!

[Fall 2016 Applicants]

On 11/3/2015, 7:16:46, Songbird222 said:

Hello! I can't move my family right now (kids, spouse's career), so I'm only applying to programs in the Bay Area. I'm applying to the SESAME program at UC Berkeley, and the Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education (CTE) program at Stanford. Yes, two super competitive schools, but I figure I'll throw my name in there, and see what happens! =)

Hi! I am very interested in the SESAME program as well! Unfortunately there don't seem to be any other programs of that nature (that are not teacher training oriented). In any case, are you clear about the funding for SESAME? I was a bit confused as they don't really go into detail about it on their website. I would appreciate any information about it!