MoynihanBreakerBurkina

Hey! Looks relatively similar to programs that I'm shooting for. I've done way too much research into the academic profiles/statistics so maybe I can help with your assessment. How is your quantitative background/experience-- anything to combat the Q score? Is your relevant coursework GPA closer to 3.5/higher? Is your undergrad institution top-tier or well-known for its rigor? Your verbal GRE will make up for the Q score in some of these programs (but not sure if Fordham will be more strict since their program is relatively Q-heavy). You do have a higher verbal than Fordham's average verbal though, so that's a plus. Because of this, I assume also that your SOP must be well-written, which will give you some points. I also wonder about the programs you chose (I applied to a couple of those, but a different one at American). I wonder because you applied for Development Practice at Emory, but at American did you consider their Development Management program (which is very similar to MDP)? Also, I don't know a lot about Notre Dame's MGA, but is that more related to international affairs than development- or is it that there is a development option? What are your career goals/what did you explain were your career goals in your SOPs? Peace Corps service is definitely a big plus, so that will give you some bonus points. What sector did you serve in? Your language profile makes me presume you were in Malawi, or maybe Zambia? PC service in Africa is very well regarded amongst grad programs in the development field (I know that Fordham, for example, very much appreciates PCVs of Africa)

Yeah, I think it is odd that they would ask you that question. I mean I understand why they want to know, but I feel like that isn't the most appropriate question for them to ask an applicant...

Cool topic. Worries: I didn't really apply to any safeties. All of the programs are in the top tier of their field, so this is worrying me a little bit now that I'm in the waiting game. Also concerned with average writing/low quant score (V-164, Q 155, AW 4.5). My SOP was pretty long (the max of whatever the program allowed) and maybe too personal. Self-doubting keeps making its appearance, and the waiting game is torture. Also, one of my professors was very late on the LOR. Finally, I have an incomplete graduate record (did 33 of 36 units for an MPA). Had a 3.94 in that program, but decided it wasn't for me and took a job out of state before I could finish the last class- this job showed me/reinforced what I actually want to do (related to the programs I applied to). Excitement: I applied to some really cool fellowships that I am hoping will work out. One of the program directors reached out to me very nicely via email, that's cool. I feel relatively confident for at least 2 of the 9 programs I applied to. I have a good amount of relevant experience that I hope will be attractive. Excited about taking this next step in this journey called life... But so anxious and it's affecting my life! (E.G., I'm at my office/I should be working right now but I'm on this forum...)

7 years of varied experience, my resume is about 4 pages long. Could not possibly make it shorter without leaving out critically important experiences

I almost applied but decided not to at the last moment... hopefully won't regret that

I applied to Harris MIDP, on regular deadline. Very competitive admission so on va voir

Yeah, you shouldn't worry. Looks real competitive to me, especially for Fletcher, American, and even SIPA fin aid

Ah, I submitted multiple updates. I don't think they mind. They look at the latest version. I talked to one grad school to confirm this and there was no issue.