Panda27

Thanks! You too. Yeah! I think the program attracts lots of RPCVs because the Peace Corps prepares people very well to be change makers-which is a big thing for this program. The money is definitely a huge factor; however, I have been amazed with the amount of communication with staff members and professors I have received already. It seems like an amazing community and very supportive with lots of awesome opportunities-particularly the i-lab. it is also a huge plus that South Bend has a low cost of living and a fully funded, summer international placement. I haven't made a final decision, but it is at the top of my list. Maybe we will see each other there! I think it is important to remember grad school, like many things is what you make of it. Also, it is an investment in you. It really depends on how much you capitalize on the opportunities offered to you. For grad school, the strength of the program is what's important and Notre Dame has an incredible reputation.

Good Luck! Here are my results, I will add it to the results section too. 1. What was the specialization you applied for? Sustainable Development 2. Were you interviewed? If so, when? No Interview 3. Did you submit GRE scores? I did not submit GRE Scores 4.. Are you a Peace Corps alumnus? (so many Peace Corps people seem to be accepted/get funding) Yes, I am an RPCV 5. Have you applied to the MGA before? If so, how many times? Nope, this was the first time 6. Basic details about your application, i.e. GPA, GRE scores (if applicable), if you have another postgraduate degree, years of international experience, etc.: 3.5 Undergrad GPA, Peace Corps service (was evacuated due to COVID), AmeriCorps service, lots of relevant international experience in undergrad. In total I have about 1.5 years of international experience. 7. If you were accepted, what financial aid package was offered, if any? I was offered 50% tuition scholarship.

I did. I am an RPCV, so I sent in my proficiency score in the language I learned through Peace Corps. Good Luck everyone!! ❤️ Hopefully by tomorrow we all have some more answers.

I will post my stuff once I hear back about financial package ?. Sending good vibes to everyone who is waiting! It's my understanding all international students receive full tuition and living stipend (which is super cool)- I remember reading something about that on a previous Keough MGA forum and/or on their website not too long ago. This could be why some found out in the email and others did not? (Just a guess) Here's to hopefully a good week for all of us!

I just got that lovely email too! So excited. My concentration is Sustainable Development.

Program Applied To (MPA, MPP, IR, etc.): CIPA (MPA), SIA (MIA), MGA, GHD Schools Applied To: Cornell CIPA, Penn State SIA, Notre Dame MGA, Georgetown GHD Schools Admitted To: Cornell (50%), Penn State (50%) Schools Rejected From: None at the moment Still Waiting: Georgetown, Notre Dame Undergraduate Institution: nationally ranked private liberal arts school Undergraduate GPA: 3.54 Undergraduate Major: Environmental Studies, Political Science GRE Quantitative/Verbal/AW Scores: Years Out of Undergrad (if applicable): 2 Years of Work Experience: 2 Describe Relevant Work Experience: Peace Corps (Evacuated), AmeriCorps Strength of SOP (be honest, describe the process, etc): I think strong. I used my Peace Corps and AmeriCorps experiences to compare & contrast the international/domestic development fields and how these experiences have helped shape my intended career path. I also made sure to talk about how the particular school's values relate to mine. I also had two college professors (English professor, Political Science professor) review them. Strength of LOR's (be honest, describe the process, etc): Very strong. One was from the executive director of a non-profit I helped to develop/run. One was from a Peace Corps prep director who I also had in two classes with. Last was from a professor I took multiple classes throughout my collegiate journey, really knows my academic ability. Other: I want to go into international development, with a focus on food security in West Africa. My biggest academic weakness is lack of quant. I did take calc and economics in undergrad. I am currently taking a statistics course and have let all the schools know. My thought process being it shows I recognize the weakness and taking pro-active steps.

@Krea96glad I am not alone! What specialization did you apply for?? I applied for Sustainable Development.

@IDstudent ok! we can wait together?

Hi! I saw forums previously for Notre Dame Keough, but none for this year so I thought I would create one. I am just nervously waiting!!

@IDstudentI am in the same boat! Waiting is the hardest. During my interview the person said possible end of February, early March? Do you have any other insights?

That's awesome. Congratulations for committing! How did you know that this is the program for you with such certainty? This is a great program! and I am definitely highly considering it. Also, I am about to talk to a CIPA student tomorrow and can ask if there are any groups like that.

I emailed with Jennifer in Admissions. I am a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer and was able to get one due to that. There is also the option to fill out a fee waiver request form when submitting your application (if I remember correctly). Hope that helps!

Do you mean for the application? Because then yes, I have.

@gl1998super valid to feel nervous! I felt the same way. Waiting is the hardest part. Maybe I can help ease your nervousness. I waited about 10 weeks before hearing. I am guessing that COVID-19 has pushed all decision dates, because all the dates we were told we were "supposed to hear" passed with no word. I would just try and be as patient as possible- NOT EASY! (i know). good luck!

I was offered a Coverdell Fellowship--> $20,000/year (50%)