Chicago Guy

I'd like to solicit the group's opinion on the pros/cons of the four schools I applied to: Notre Dame MTS Duke MTS HDS MTS Yale MAr Assume political theology / ethics for all programs. Disregard questions of funding (At this point, I'm interested in a comparison only of the pure academics/career prospects). Which would you choose? Which do you feel offer the clearest route toward further doctoral study?

I would struggle to consider another program without full funding.

Just accepted at Notre Dame! Received a phone call. Everyone in ND's MTS program gets a full ride. Still waiting for HDS, YDS, and Duke.

I went to UChicago for undergrad and business school. You don't need to worry about Hyde Park. There are plenty of nice and safe places to live. It's one of the most intellectually vibrant and diverse neighborhoods in the country. Highly recommend it. On the other hand, Chicago is generally just an awesome place to live. Tons of great neighborhoods on the north side as well.

Ok, thank you. This is very encouraging.

Did you see any classmates already in their 30s go on to a PhD?

I'm curious; how many of your HDS classmates did go on to top-tier PhD programs (particularly relative to those who attempted to)? Of those who did, what differentiated them?

Nothing yet. I expect radio silence until the end of the month. I think HDS, YDS, and Duke will be closer to mid-March.

This is my first post as well. I'm also applying to MTS/MAR fall 2021. My stats are below: Four applications turned in: Notre Dame MTS HDS MTS Duke MTS Yale MAR I'm focused on political theology Top-5 undergrad in Philosophy, 3.9 GPA and phi beta kappa Top-5 MBA ~10 years of experience working in investment banking and presidential electoral politics Headed toward PhD after this, but largest concern is that I'm now in my mid-30s and worry that I could be boxed out of PhD apps or tenure-track openings on account of age.