Akee

What was your MPH concentration and what department is the MS from Columbia coming from, Epi? If the MPH and MS are smiliar then it wouldn't be helpful to spend the money on another degree. The main pro about Columbia is that attending a school in NYC would mean more opportunities to work on research. That said, you could do this without actually attending classes. It seems like you need more research experience, not more classroom learning. Full-time research experience can substantially strengthen your application if you decide to apply again - esp if you get the opportunity to work on multiple projects. Small midwest program: Radio silent doesn't necessarily mean a bad sign but you should contact the Director of the program or the Head of the department - they would be able to tell you more definitively how funding works after the first year.

Hi all - I've been MIA to deal with my GradCafe obsession and just now seeing questions about Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL). I was invited for Interview Weekend which was early Feb but I couldn't attend due to conflict. A video and phone interview were arranged with POIs. I got an acceptance letter last week.

If there's only one rejection on the results page, it must be mine ?

How do you know about the interviews/rejections, did you call? I had 1 informal interview before submitting my application but no word since.

Yayyy, congrats on the interview!!

I agree with your current suggestions because between your experiences and research I can't tell if you understand the demands of an Epi program or why you would want to pursue a PhD in Epi specifically. Coursework: A more relevant masters would be good. Perhaps a more affordable program such as online/blend since you already have a masters. Instead of a master, you could also take a few classes or do a summer workshop. Here is an example, hosted by Columbia University: https://www.mailman.columbia.edu/research/epidemiology-and-population-health-summer-institute-columbia-university-epic Research: Additionally experience working with data sets and using statistical software(s) - authorship would be nice but not necessary. You should build up your skillset related to epi. What exactly was your sample size, saying "large" is vague.. was it over 300? Have you considered trying to get the manuscript published? Experience: I'm not familiar with programs you can apply to; however, applying to them would only strengthen your application if this round doesn't end well. Also, look at the publically available resume/CV of people working in the epi field - see what work/programs they completed before entering their doctoral program. Hope that helps! A little about me - I submitted my apps for Fall 2019 for Behavioral Science/Health Ed program. I've been working in research of 8 years including my undergrad years. I have an MPH. I've been working as a public health researcher at a med school full time for 3 years as the lead on several projects. Good Luck!