LabichedeRenaissance

Hey guys, anyone heard from Duke? Slightly concerning that it's radio silence... guessing it's a no.

@Marcin Responded! The stipend isn't much in terms of Boston but should make things easier somewhat. You'll probably have to dip into your savings, find another source of funding (maybe your employer?) or work another job (could be difficult as an intnl student under F-1 visa restrictions). Congrats though!!! You should be proud. BU only gives out about 3-4 acceptances.

@Marcin Hey Marcin, what an irony! I got accepted into BU as well. I wouldn't worry too much about if it's suspicious. They don't interview candidates in general. Some programs do, others don't so I wouldn't worry. Congrats! Also, I do know where you're coming from. I come from a family of professors but they are specialized in politics, biology, law, finance, and international relations. They have all ended up at fabulous places with tenure-track positions and some even higher (in government positions). Looking at them, I wouldn't worry but I do since this is a French PhD, not a Politics PhD. I'm paranoid that I might lose financial stability by following my passion. At the same time, like you, I don't like the job I'm in. I think it's a matter of tossing up which matters more to us: taking a risk or sticking to what we have. I'm confident we'll find our way either way! When I say this, I don't mean to put down fellow French PhD candidates. We come from very different backgrounds. However, a little compassion will go a long way. After all, what is the point of becoming a professor if you can't compassionately connect to students.

Hello! Joining the bandwagon here. Got accepted into UWisconsin and UPitt! Waiting on others :] Right now, as I go through the process, I'm becoming more conscious and paranoid about doing this entire thing in the first place. I mean : investing that amount of time with poor prospects of employment? I'm really passionate about research and teaching. However, two new elements have popped up in my life that are making it difficult. I just received an offer for a very well-paid employment position and I also got into a law school (one of the top 15 in the world). I just applied to those two as back-ups without any clue/belief that both would work out. Now, I'm stuck in a conundrum on whether to follow my passion or my logic (the one with $$). Anyone who has had the same experience or may be in the same boat -- some truthful advice appreciated. Ideally I'd like to follow French but I would really not like to have to explain employment prospects 5-6 years down the line.