C_Dunn

This is my second year applying to the MGPS program, so I might be able to give some insight. Last year, I met with a representative and got to ask some questions personally (if you are in Austin, I would suggest doing this). The program itself is very up-and-coming. It is new, but already highly-ranked, probably due to the reputation of the MPP program. I did however get the impression that they were still experimenting with curriclum, trying to make it as effective as possible. The major pro of LBJ is the cost, especially if you are in state. The con is definitely the location. I love Austin, but it is not a hub for international affairs, like DC or NYC. Connections for internships and entry level work will not be as international. Other than that, I got a good feeling about the place, if that counts. Last year, I would have gone no questions asked, but I got rejected. Now that I got in this year, I am more than leaning toward DC. I got into American yesterday, and I feel it would be a more complete and connected experience. Best of luck. I hope you get my spot.

I got it! Over the moon excited! I actually had a dream last night that my acceptance letter arrived in the form of a video cassette. I, of course, not having a VCR in a decade tried frantically to find someone in my apartment complex that did. Haha! I applied to the MIA Regional Europe program. I did not find any information concerning any scholarships or financial awards in my package, so I assume that I was not awarded anything. Correct? Best of luck!

Yea, I had a similar problem, but it's nothing to worry about. They cleared it up after I sent a little email.

Way to go! Congrats! I hope I'm as lucky. Would you mind feeding the general OCD of this community-in-waiting and give more info about your letter (ie. how/when did you receive it, when you applied, funding, maybe a little about yourselves)? I submitted my app the first week in January. I hope the rolling admissions calls my number soon.

I don't know where you are getting your information, but I hope you are right. I found this on the SIS website... When will I hear from the admissions committee? If your file was complete by the deadline, you should hear from us in early to mid-April. Otherwise, you will hear from us on a rolling basis. I guess if you submitted your app early, you might hear early as well.

Ugh, so not cool.

I agree. These forums are created for open, honest discussion. Though it is a little uncomfortable, how else can anyone assess their chances without listing their achievements? Mjoy, your credentials are quite impressive, especially your vault of languages. Good luck.

Thank you for your constructive input. You asked to know more about the nature of my ideal program. I want to concentrate in European Studies. I also want a program that encourages language acquisition. As I said above, I spent number of years living in Europe as a child, and returing to live and work Europe is a personal goal of mine. My principle point of interest in European Affairs is the growth and success of the European Union. The level of political, economic, linguistic and cultural integration fascinates me. In the future, my ideal job would be liaising between the US and the EU, whether it be through State or another agency or NGO. To summarize, I want to be a European expert. (Let me know if you need more information) Question...I know from personal experience that a set career path in international affairs and its actual manifestation are basically unheard of. Would admissions appreciate an honest acknowlegement of this? Of course, I would then describe that I believe myself to have the flexibility to succeed in any international field. Or, does it want me to put a bull's eye on my dream job? Maybe middle ground? Thanks.

Hello, Just like everybody else, I'd appreciate a little feedback on my chances at the afore mentioned International Affairs programs (SAIS, SIPA, Georgetown, American, LBJ). I applied to LBJ last year and did not make it. My scores were quite above the average, but everyone appeared to be about 5 years older than me. I might as well paraphrase my resume for your critiques. Education: BA Honors (2009), International Studies and French • 3.79 GPA. • Phi Beta Kappa Member • Winner of Outstanding Delegation (Committee and Overall) at the 2009 National Model United Nations Conference in New York City. • Winner of Outstanding Delegation (Committee and Overall) at the 2008 American Model United Nations Conference in Chicago. • Participant in distinguished language program in Grenoble, France (fluent speaker). • Recipient of esteemed European diploma : Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française B2. • GRE 730Q/600V (Retaking soon) Work Experience: International Trade Assistant for U.S. Department of Commerce Export Assistance Center • Helped domestic companies export internationally. • Learned the insides of business both in the public and private sectors. • Conducted intensive market research on foreign countries. • Gained invaluable experience in professionalism and networking. Congressional Intern for U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul • Handled constituents’ concerns on a variety of topics ranging from immigration to veterans’ affairs. • Aided the Congressman's work on the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Homeland Security Committee’s Intelligence Subcommittee. International Background: • Grew up overseas (Father works in oil business) • Lived in Saudi Arabia, England, Scotland, and France. • Visited twenty-nine counties throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia. • French (Fluent) • Spanish (Intermediate) • Some German and Arabic I realize that my lack of experience might be my downfall. I've tried my best to find relevant work experience since graduation, but the economy has not made it easy for me. I am currently working in a law firm doing paralegal work, and I do part-time French interpretation for visiting patients in the Medical Center. I appreciate any guidance or help you can offer. Give it to me straight. I need to know what I'm up against. You won't hurt my feelings. Thanks!

Still holding on to hope. I got up the balls to call in last week, and Lucy said they hoped to get everything in by Tuesday (Wednesday if needed). I'm trying to rationalize why they would wait so long, but it's all out of my hands. I hope I can post again in a couple hours with an extended line of exclamation points.

To those of you that have received news (especially those who are in the MGPS), when did you submit your application? I would assume that the administrators are reviewing the applications in the order in which they were received. I'm freaking out here.