Solidarity

AshDarling, First off, congrats on making this decision. It sounds like you're informed of the current state of the profession and know the pros and cons. I'm including a few tips and thoughts below, in no specific order, to help you along your way. - make sure to contact your potential advisors for each program you apply to. Last year, I wanted to apply to OSU but was waived off by one of the professors, saying the state of Ohio budget cuts, uncertainty in graduate education, etc., would make it difficult to get accepted. Things may have changed since then. Key is to start a discussion with two to three potential profs at each school. - you're experience, life activities, etc., sound great and I think would make a great SOP. Do you have a mentor from when you were going to school? I would suggest contacting them to help review your SOP. - As far as the SOP, the only great suggestion I have is to make it concise, to the point, and direct. Stay away from the "when I was little i decided to become a teacher" type opening. Those work for undergraduate admissions essays, but not for grad school (at least in my opinion). If possible, reach out for colleagues or graduate students at other programs - after a bit of dialogue, you can ask them for copies of their SOp. - As far as the actual SOP, I would suggest to make sure an include two the three potential professor names, why you wish to work with them, a few ideas of research while making sure to show you're flexible. Keep in mind that Admin committees use this information to see what field you'd most likely be accepted in. - depending on the program, your volunteer and community work will be a benefit and should be included. You'll know after talking/emailing with professors, grad students, and DGSs. If you have any other questions, feel free to email me at edenby@gmail.com. I'd be more than happy to offer more tips off forum. Best, Eric

MoleMocha - I just wanted to say how happy I am you posted this. I am in my first year, first semester of my graduate program and I too have this feeling consistently. I've actually heard it called the "impostor" syndrome, whereas you are always thinking "how the hell did i get in here." Anyway, keep up the good work and don't let anyone keep you down. I view graduate school like golf - it's me versus myself - my own abilities, my own intelligence, and most importantly, my own drive to keep on the path. Good luck.

Love this post and thanks to everyone for sharing. I am attending my first year of Graduate school this coming Fall, and would love to have suggestions on what to read. My interests include 20th Cent. U.S. History with a focus on labor, communism, and radicalism (from 1920 to present). Any good suggestions? Thanks a ton.