pinot noir

Hi all, It's been a while since I've posted here. Does anyone no anything about switching majors once you've started graduate school? I'd appreciate any help and I am seriously considering...

P.S. I'v only taken one English course too (my undergrad background is in journalism, but my writing sample was all done solo) and I got into Columbia! So don't let that stop you

From my experience, creative writing MFA programs look hard at the writing sample. That's all that matters: Writing sample, writing sample, writing sample. Most of them don't even require the GRE. Funding is meager and post-graduation job market is grim. That being said, if you feel you have a strong writing sample, and I mean really strong, then you have a chance. But if you just want to apply to "see if you can get in," then I would stay in your field and continue writing until you feel you have the best possible writing sample to submit. These programs are very competitive. The process of applying is grueling and since it is writing, it can stifle your creativity. To answer your question, they don't regard your undergrad field of study so long as the writing sample is up to par. I hope this helps and I didn't mean to discourage you from applying, just letting you know the reality of these programs. Rejection stings, but you have to get used to it as a writer.

Thanks. I have filled out fafsa so that shouldn't be a problem

Hi guys, It's been a while since I've been on this site, but since I was last here I accepted to the school that offered me full tuition and a modest stipend (UC Riverside) for creative writing MFA (nonfiction). I'm set to start in September, but I just lost my job that I had for seven years. I know the economy is iffy right now and I really want to focus on my studies/writing. I am considering taking out a loan for the first year. I live quite modestly and am part of a credit union that I believe offers loans at excellent rates. Does anyone have any advice on this? Granted, this is an art degree and I am aware that the job market is practically nonexistent. However, I am seriously considering this as a risk or investment so that I can focus primarily on my studies. I will plan to still work part-time (I can't imagine ever not working!), but the loan will be a back up and most likely my primary source of living (I'm thinking 20k). I appreciate any advice.

I just accepted to the MFA program for creative writing (nonfiction). Feel kind of ambivalent about it to be perfectly honest

In regards to Columbia: My brother: "What's that?" My boss: "Where's that?" Everyone else: "So, when do you start?" Me: "I haven't said yes yet..."

My Professor who wrote my LoR: (when I got into my safety school) "Well at least you know you're going somewhere (emphasis on Somewhere)." (when I told him I got into Columbia) "You're kidding! You're joking, right!?" (with a stunned look on his face)

Thank you. U sweet

Yes, there is a chance of funding i.e. teaching position the second year which includes tuition waiver and stipend. These positions are competitive, but I believe I have some experience to make me eligible. That being said, the tuition would only be applicable for the first year

Of course. Although I can't imagine life without some kind of work

Thanks guys! This really helps... and to answer a few of your questions: yes, there is opportunity for teaching positions in the second year which includes full tuition waver and a stipend, but these positions are competitive as well and would push the degree up to a three rather than two years (third year tuition is like $1000 though). Anyhow, I'm heading for NY today and I will have a response when I return... I am seriously leaning toward the money...

I was accepted into two schools--my top choice and my safety school. I applied to five programs and I am happy with the results, but here is my dilemma: these schools are about as opposite on the spectrum as you could imagine. One is Ivy League (Columbia) and is offering me no funding... zilch... nada! UC Riverside, on the other hand, is offering me a full tuition waiver and a moderate stipend ($6000/year). The program is fine, but I don't know if I would thrive there. My wise professor told me, "If you want to be a writer, you have to go hang out where writers hang out," and as much as a I value his opinion, the thought of going into 50k debt for the first year of a writing degree is absolutely freaking me out to no end. To make things worse, Columbia is having their reception this Thursday the 14th and UCR's deadline to respond is the 15th. I have four hours from the time I get off the plane to decide. I live close to Riverside, so it would be somewhat convenient as I wouldn't have to move. New York would be a huge change... and I just don't know if the cost is worth it... Any thoughts... anyone? -sincerely, east coast vs. west coast.

Thanks, fuzzylogician!

I would like any advice on deferring an offer. I was accepted to dream school, but the thought of tuition and debt has given me an ulcer. I am thinking about asking for a deferral so I can have time to research scholarships/external funding options. Does anyone know anything about deferral policies? Are schools favorable to students who are honest about their financial situation? Will they defer an admission if they are interested in the student? It just doesn't make sense to dig myself into that kind of debt for a graduate writing degree All advice is appreciated. Thanks!