lhommekipasse

Previous Schools (Name, type, or tier): Top French science university (Ecole Polytechnique) Previous Degrees and GPA's: Master's degree in applied mathematics and economics GRE Scores (Verbal/Quantitative/Analytical Writing): 550 / 800 / 3.5 Previous Work Experience (Years, Type): 1 year of work in an management consulting company, 7 months of volunteering at the French Red Cross, 4-month research internship at UC Berkeley Math/Econ Background: Well, with a master's degree in mathematics that was not the hardest part of my application Foreign Language Background: French (mother tongue), English (104 Toefl IBT), German Intended Field of Study in Grad School: Urban policy / Housing issues Long Term Professional Goals: I am part of a professional program in france leading to high position in French civil service (corps des ponts) Schools Applied to & Results: Admitted: MPA Columbia SIPA, MPP Harvard KSG, TPP Mit. Waitlisted: MPP Berkeley Ultimate Decision & Why: HKS: I heard good echoes from former French students, both on the quality of the courses, on the political effervescence, and on the social life. Plus, of course, the brand name that can always be useful. Any advice to Future Applicants? It's always worth trying your luck. I would never have said I had a chance at HKS (I didn't even apply for fellowships ) and yet I am going to Cambridge next year . Also, two small practical advices: Don't ask too many people to reread your SOP, you would end up with contradictory opinions. Chose one of two friends with some time and some skills in writing, and work mainly with them. I had poor verbal and AWA scores, and yet I ended with relatively good results. So I would say that this is not the most important part of your application, at least for international students. Good luck and may the force be with you.

I received an email telling me I was admitted on February 24. In an email, one of the staff member told me this week they are still wrapping up admissions. So I believe there is still hope for all of you! I have no idea why some people were admitted on the 24th and others are supposed to be later. Of course, the idea that I am one of the top applicants is gratifying but I believe there can be a lot of other possibilities. Good luck everybody, hoping to meet you there next year !