MyLadyDisdain

Thanks, swils! Both programs sound great; at present I've found that I'm mapping out my degree class by class with each of my top programs and trying to make a decision based on this (I have till Tuesday!). Interestingly enough, I chose my applications by looking at the ALA program map and visiting different program sites. It just so happened that they were all top ten

Thanks, awvvu! And not to worry, anthrodork Anyone else?

Hey All, I just thought it might be nice to post up any pictures/impression of campuses that we visit, for others who have not had the chance to go. If you have any particular photos that you enjoyed taking on your trip, and want to share, here's a great place to post them! Best Wishes, MLD

Well, I was really excited by the preservation program at UT Austin, however I didn't receive funding. My intention, as it stands, is to go to Indiana University. I was offered a paid position in library outreach and information literacy (topics I care about, deeply), and I'm going to wait a year to double with their History program. If I can fit archives/preservation in on the MLS side, and a few languages in on the History side, I'll be working towards academic reference in the humanities (combined with a dramatic literature graduate certification in Theatre Arts). Mostly I just want to work with antiquarians and help to connect people to the information they need but didn't know they needed I'm hoping I've chosen the right path.

Thanks for reading! I'm very excited (if somewhat humbled) to have been admitted to the following schools: U Washington U Texas (Austin) U Michigan (Ann Arbor) U Indiana (Bloomington) Syracuse Pitt Simmons While financial aid is a determining factor in my decisions rubrik, I would love to have any opinions regarding my choices. Thusfar I've been offered scholarships by UM and IU, the later including full funding for the first year and a paid position in my field of interest. Things I'm looking for: Small class sizes Interdisciplinary approach Individual degree design Internship/abroad options Thank you so much for your replies! ~MLD

Sounds like you and I have very similar interests I was also accepted to Pitt and, according to my roommate, it's an exceptional college experience. I only declined because I received a better offer and paid position in my field of interest elsewhere; my philosophy is to 'go where the work is.' You seem similarly inclined to making yourself hirable, and my impression (though I may be misguided) is that any work which gets your foot in the door is important. An unrelated internship might be really enjoyable and show diversity on your resume. That said, I have no concept of the program at Madison, but hope that helps! Good luck, whatever you decide. ~MLD

Thank you for your input; for 20k less in loans I think I can make a really good start of IU, and they've been very kind.

As someone who was fortunate enough to make this leverage factor work, I highly recommend the one thing which might be forgotten in this process: be genuine! Tell them why you love their program, and demonstrate your willingness to apply yourself to any scholarship/internship/funding opportunity they might have for you. Offer to work in the department, or any other recommended employment opportunities. If you can't afford to take on more debt (and I couldn't), be upfront but proactive and polite. Don't threaten, don't beg, and don't be afraid to call and connect with the admissions team. A well cultivated connection with the staff who will be supporting you through your program is absolutely key to successfully completing your degree. Show that you aren't just another number and, hopefully, they will lower your numbers. Good luck! ~MLD

Thanks for reading! I've been offered a full tuition scholarship at Indiana University, Bloomington, for fall 12-13, with a paid position in the library to cover rent. After that (assuming they do not offer me further aid, which they may), in state tuition goes down to roughly 7k a year. Michigan Ann Arbor just offered me 1/2 tuition for two years (the length of the program), which would equate to about $19k for year one, and $10k for year two. UM is supposedly the better of the two for library science. I am already 40k in debt from undergrad, and the advice I have received is "go where the money is." I figure it might be a no brainer, but am hoping for more informed opinions than mine. Best Regards, MLD

Anyone? I'd really appreciate any help.

Thanks for reading! I'm very excited (if somewhat shocked) to have been admitted to the following schools: U Washington U Texas (Austin) U Michigan (Ann Arbor) U Indiana (Bloomington) Syracuse Pitt Simmons While financial aid is a determining factor in my decisions rubrik, I would love to have any opinions regarding my choices. Things I'm looking for: Small class sizes Interdisciplinary approach Individual degree design Internship/abroad options Thank you so much for your replies! ~MLD