LeftCoast

Flatcoat: In my MBA program I took several courses focusing on the intersection of business/government & this is where I will be focusing my research. Classes include courses on the business environment and lobbying etc..In my SOP letters I made it very clear that I envision myself ultimately attached to a management school and intended on taking coursework in the school of management. When I began this process, I was not certain if a management or PS doctoral program would best suit my interests. Discussions w/profs in the business school I attended (PS background) convinced me to pursue my doctoral studies in politics rather than in a business school. You are correct in some ways though. Upon completion of my MBA, the plan was to work a few more years and apply to PhD programs. I however decided to finish my MBA at the same time the economy went into freefall. UE approaching 10% where I live with no sign of improvement certainly played a large factor in applying now rather than following my original plan.

IvyReject: You nailed it. I have admittedly OK scores and grades. As much as I would like to think I am Harvard material, the record does not get me into a place like that. Wasting time(mine and the universities) and $ applying to all of the top schools does not seem like a great idea. Rice is my first choice for a variety of reasons but would be happy with any of the schools where I have applied.

Flatcoat-My research experience is limited. I have worked for several years..graduated w/BS in 1998 and finished MBA last year in an evening program. Subfield of American Politics. Specifically, lobbying/business regulation/campaign finance. My research interests are really a hybrid of politics/management. 4 LOR's. 2 from undergrad days, PS profs at U. of Oregon and two from business school. They should be good recommendations.

I'm new here, will someone give me their opinion on my chances of aceptance? BS-PS large state university 3.6 GPA MBA- well respected regional liberal arts college 3.25 GPA 620 V 610 Q on GRE Applied: Missouri, Maryland, UMass, Kansas