Alex741

Honestly, I think there’s still value in making the thread even if it starts out quiet. You never know when a few applicants will stumble across it and get the conversation going. And don’t worry about the “how do I internet forum?” feeling 😂 I think a lot of us have been there. GradCafe still has its place, especially for application-season discussions, so I wouldn’t give up on it just yet. Good luck with the Fall 2023 apps!

This is a really interesting idea, especially since you’re openly inviting criticism rather than presenting the model as unquestionably correct. I’m not qualified to evaluate the physics in detail, but I’d be curious to see how your model addresses the main observations supporting cosmic expansion, such as the CMB and redshift. Even if the model ultimately has flaws, exploring alternative explanations can lead to some valuable discussion. Best of luck with the work!

Sounds like a great opportunity for anyone interested in materials science and experimental condensed-matter physics! The flexibility, collaboration, and hands-on research experience sound especially appealing. Good luck to everyone applying!

I’m applying this cycle as well! I’m also interested in connecting with others who are applying to PhD programs in the US. A Discord or group chat would be really helpful for sharing timelines, application tips, and supporting each other through the process. Good luck to everyone applying this fall! 🎓

Congrats on getting the interview invites! From what I’ve seen, architecture PhD interviews can vary quite a bit by program, but they often focus on your research interests, methodology, previous work, and how your proposed research fits with the faculty and program. It may also be worth preparing to discuss your CV and portfolio, key projects or publications, and why you’re interested in that particular department. Some interviews are more conversational, while others may be fairly structured. Hopefully others who have already gone through the process can share more specific experiences. Good luck with the interviews!

A really useful initiative. For IR/MPP applicants, the CV is often one of the first things that can shape an admissions committee’s impression, so focusing on clarity, relevance, and impact is important.

I’d probably apply again only if you can make a meaningful improvement to your profile rather than applying just because you have another attempt. Since you were waitlisted the first time, that’s a good sign that your application was competitive, but the rejection the second time could mean the pool or your profile didn’t align as strongly that year. If you know what areas you can strengthen work experience, leadership, academic profile, essays, recommendations, or your career goals I’d consider applying next year. Otherwise, waiting a year or two and building a stronger profile could make the third attempt more worthwhile. Since you only get three applications, I’d definitely treat the final one strategically.

Hi! I haven’t heard anything yet about Columbia’s MS program interviews. Hopefully we start seeing some updates soon.

Honestly, I’d try getting some journalism experience before committing to another Master’s. Your environmental background could actually be a huge advantage for environmental journalism, and you already have more relevant writing experience than you’re giving yourself credit for—research papers, policy briefs, a nonprofit piece, a blog, and an upcoming academic publication. I’d start by pitching a few smaller stories related to environmental issues in NYC. You don’t necessarily need to work for free; look for local publications, niche environmental outlets, newsletters, and smaller digital publications that accept freelance pitches. Your goal initially would be to build a small portfolio and learn the pitching process. A journalism Master’s could definitely be worthwhile if you want structured training, internships, networking, and access to editors, but I wouldn’t assume you need the degree just to prove you can be a journalist. Give yourself a few months to test the waters first. If you enjoy reporting and start getting clips, you’ll also have a much clearer idea of whether journalism school is worth the investment.

I haven’t heard anything yet from CUNY, NYU, BU, or Columbia. Seems like a lot of people are still waiting. Hopefully we start seeing some updates soon good luck to everyone!

I’m particularly interested in Women and Gender Studies, especially topics around gender, identity, and social policy. African Studies and Latin American Studies also seem really interesting, depending on the specific research focus and faculty.

I’m particularly interested in Women and Gender Studies, especially topics around gender, identity, and social policy. African Studies and Latin American Studies also seem really interesting, depending on the specific research focus and faculty.

That’s an amazing list of programs! I’m also interested in film/visual studies and it would be great to connect with others going through the same application process. Best of luck to everyone applying, and hopefully we’ll all have some good news to share soon!

This is a really helpful discussion. I’d also suggest considering a Cover Letter when preparing applications, especially for IR/MPP programs. It can help structure your experience and responsibilities into a clear, tailored cover letter while keeping the focus on your actual background and achievements. Of course, the final letter should always be reviewed and personalized rather than relying entirely on a generated version.

I’d lean UCLA if your priorities are broad recognition, flexibility within the U.S., and potentially working internationally later. UCLA has a very strong global name and being in Los Angeles also gives you exposure to a huge urban planning market with connections across California and beyond. That said, NYU has a major advantage if you’re particularly interested in urban policy, real estate, transportation, or planning in dense global cities. Being in New York can also be valuable for networking and internships while you’re studying. As an international student, I’d also look beyond university rankings and compare each program’s alumni network, internship opportunities, OPT/STEM eligibility if applicable to the specific degree, and where recent international graduates actually end up working. If you already have a sense of the countries or cities you might want to work in afterward, I’d use that to make the final decision. Honestly, you’re in a great position—UCLA and NYU are both excellent choices. I’d probably choose based on the specific curriculum, funding package, and where you see yourself living for the next 2–3 years rather than worrying too much about the name carrying you internationally.