MSDubbs

Hey all, I'm mostly just curious: where are you all applying, and why? I'm a little behind on my own self-inflicted deadlines, which means that I haven't yet solidified my list and I only have a rough outline for my SOP. But I figured it could be fun, and informative, to hear other peoples' choices and thoughts on where they will be applying...and where you're all at in this process, since it's somewhat early but...quickly approaching deadlines and things. Eeps! Personally, I'll be applying to programs with a strong macro focus, and I am also taking a look at a few schools that also have international social work. Ideally with those, I'd be able to find some flexibility to do international social work with a macro focus, and eventually analyzing LGBTQ communities and movements elsewhere than the states. My list includes the following schools so far: UConn, BU, Hunter, University of Washington, UMich. And then I have the "oh-god-am-i-going-to-apply-to-any/all/none-of-these?" schools like: Penn, UT Austin, UIC... If anyone has feedback on those, I'd love to hear it! Otherwise, again, where are you applying? =)

oh jeez. that's crazy!

I'm not sure. I'm also looking into Penn and University of Pittsburgh, but I don't have much info about either programs yet. *Begins researching both more closely*

Thanks, Briefinterviews! That's really helpful advice. If you don't mind me asking, where else were you considering before choosing berkeley?

I am also leaning towards being in CT. I've only looked at UConn, and don't know much about Southern, but I loved my visit to UConn. I was impressed by their community organizing track, and their macro focus. They introduced me to their field directors, a professor, and some phD students we ran into. The field directors were very enthusiastic and it seemed like there is quite a bit of flexibility to choose your field placement. I would recommend visiting and see how it would fit your needs. If you are interested in a macro program at all, I think you'll be impressed by the program. Otherwise, I know a lot less about it =/

Yeah, I have heard really good things about UW as well. And Seattle's a great city to be in. I noticed Simmons is on your list. I was really interested in their program until I read they are only clinical. Have you heard otherwise?

Hey citychild, I'm in a similar position. I'm looking to apply for Macro programs and cost is going to play a big role in my decision. I am also avoiding the GRE. Yay us! So far, I've also been looking into Hunter and UConn. Hunter seems like kind of a gamble, cost-wise, since it's in NY, but I am definitely interested in UConn's program. I'd recommend checking them out. Otherwise, I have had no luck with schools in CA or the pacific northwest either. Everything that even has options for people interested in macro social work require the GRE =(

From what I have heard, many PhD programs will require you to get your MA along the way to the PhD, if you don't already come in with a MA in Soc. For instance, my partner already has her masters (in a different field, but still similar enough) and applied to soc PhD programs. She was accepted, but will need to get a MA in Soc along the way to her PhD. It might be the case that having a masters already in a related field, along with additional experience, gave her an advantage over some undergrads competing against her; however, if you know where you want to ultimately end up, I would not recommend pursuing something else in the meantime. One of my main concerns would also be the money involved in pursuing multiple degrees.

Hey everyone, I will be applying to social work programs for fall '13, so I am just starting to really explore all of the options out there. Reading through the forums has already been really helpful for me, but I haven't found a lot of talk about good, affordable macro programs--and comparing the schools that offer strong macro programs. Any current macro SW folks out there who could provide insight on your process and where it ultimately led you? If you have attended or are currently attending a school with a macro focus, did/do you find that the program has a strong social justice focus? Ideally, I would find a program that operates under a queer and feminist theory framework, have options for placement in LGBT organizations, etc. and at the very least it's important that I find a program that will be dedicated to addressing such issues. Any thoughts or feedback would be greatly appreciated!