Larnith
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Everything posted by Larnith
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Thanks guys for the insight! I think all of you make some very valid points. It seems like the potential benefit of learning Manchu right now simply doesn’t outweigh the penalty of a Chinese (classical and modern) language deficiency. Additionally, I've only spent 3months in China, so more time in Asia can only help my chances. While the Berkeley program is a rare opportunity, it seems Taiwan is both cheaper and more pertinent right now. Moving forward I will just need to keep my eye out for more convenient opportunities to learn Manchu.
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So while I agree that classical Chinese will be necessary to studying Qing history, I was hoping that given my current Chinese level, I could study it over the first two years of a future Ph.D. program. My current options for the summer, however, are either taking the full ride to Taiwan to focus on improving my Chinese or paying my way to learn basic Manchu document reading. I'm not sure which will be more attractive to Ph.D. programs.
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So, I actually haven't studied classical Chinese yet. At my university, classical Chinese is only available for students at the fourth year level or above.
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I was notified of my acceptance today, so I haven't had the opportunity to discuss it with my committee yet. I plan to meet with them over the coming weeks but would also like the insight of graduate students who are further along in their careers. In the past, they have said that Manchu language would be very valuable for any Qing historian because it will sperate me from the mass of applications. My thoughts so far have been that even if I do a summer Chinese program, there will still be more than a few applicants who are better or fluent in Chinese. Manchu, on the other hand, could potentially give me a competitive edge against them.
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Hey guys, I'm a masters student studying Chinese History. In particular, I am studying Manchu identity in the Qing dynasty. My goal is to continue on to the Ph.D level, and ultimately find a tenure-track job. I'm currently finishing up the third year of Chinese language classes and have an important decision to make this summer. This summer, I have been accepted to two language programs. The first being TUSA which is an almost fully funded two months immersive Mandarin program in Taiwan. The second being a one month Manchu language program in the US, aimed at getting scholars with no prior experience to document reading level. Unfortunately, the Manchu program has no funding, and in total will likely cost me 5000 dollars out of pocket ( including housing, transportation, and food). So far people have told me that Manchu language is such a rare skill, that having it on my C.V. will help make me highly competitive for top-notch Ph.D. programs. So my questions are which program should I choose? Does the benefit of learning Manchu outweigh a prestigious and fully funded Mandarin Program? Is Manchu language really the secret to acceptance at a top-tier program? I'd appreciate any advice you guys can give. '
