Hello All,
I am an Indian national, 24 years, aspiring to study International Relations/ Public Policy Masters for Fall 2011, but i am a career changer , so i am not sure whether my aims are out of reach or not
Bachelors in Engineering ( Information Technology) Academics : 73% from not so known college in India
Work ex 2.5 years until now
Post graduation , i worked in Europe with small startup and then with fortune 500 energy major in a financial analyst role . managed to gain perspectives on energy, finance, management ,technology , climate change and policy issues related to energy during my stint
Motivation for IR/ policy : went to Antarctica last year on an International Expedition with a famous explorer promoting and creating awareness on climate change and preservation of Antarctica. worked in communications on the continent connecting technology with environment and climate change awareness movement. Later I went to Arctic this year to really witness the first hand effects and its impact of the society.
International Travel : travelled to around 30 countries and gained international perspective of different cultures, traditions and political systems which strengthened my interest into passion .
GRE : yet to take
i am trying to read on areas on India and Global Issues and its impact to India and South Asian Society, Environment Policy, Technology and Policy and I want to make a further career in these areas.
So based on my work ex, life experiences and academics , i am targeting the following schools . Is it impossible to make a shift to IR/policy with an engineering degree?
1, Graduate Institute , Geneva
2. LSE ( MPA course , since IR course strictly had acad degree from social science, eco, pol sci)
3. Harvard Kennedy MPP focus on International and Global Affairs
4. Woodrow Wilson , Princeton
I am also looking at Sciences Po, Hertie School , Berlin .
Am i targeting too high ?
Do you think these are out of reach schools for me and i should also research some other schools .
Any other inputs will be greatly appreciated
PS: Graduate Institue and LSE MPA doesnt require GRE ( thats what it is mentioned) . Has anyone applied here without GRE .. How do the chances pan put for an applicant in such a case. ANyone has had such experience with LSE and Geneva Graduate Institute?
Regards,
sientcacophony