I'm a philosophy student and I know what kind of programs I would be competitive for in my field but I thought I might ask you guys about Northwestern's PhD program. I am really interested in political philosophy/ theory and Northwestern looks like a really good fit considering my interests- (critical theory, philosophy etc).
I got a BA from a run of the mill school in philosophy with a minor in poli sci. GPA was 3.98
I've got an MA from a fairly respectable philosophy program (we placed guys in phd programs at Ivy leauges, top ten schools). GPA should be 3.9 or 3.8
I have a writing sample that I'm pretty stoked about on the tension between Kant's ethical and political theories. I will also have really strong letters.
I've got research experience (I'm helping to edit a prof's forthcoming book), and have one publication in a peer-reviewed journal. I have a few presentations and some different awards n' such.
I bombed my GRE. I've got a 650 verbal, 600 math, 5.0 on my writing. last time around, I didn't need one for the program I was applying to and got into the school of my dreams. When I realized at the last minute i wasn't going to be able to afford that program I had to haul ass and take the GRE to submit for other programs. I'm pretty broke and won't be taking it again any time soon. I think my record can speak for itself with this one hiccup.
So, do I even have a shot at being competitive at Northwestern or should I just save my cash? -Thanks