hopeful grad

I got accepted yesterday and was very disappointed about not receiving scholarship funding. I think they really take into account your specialization when applying for admission even though this doesn't need to be declared right away. I'm feeling a little confused now - do I want to take on that much debt and graduate in what could still be a difficult job market? I probably won't make too much more than I do now at least right away. Overall, it's difficult not feeling wanted by the program and NYC is expensive. Anyone else feeling a bit down about this?

Moahb - when did you apply? Is it first in, first out? Also what do you mean by semi-finalist for Goldberg? I didn't know there were several levels. With the negotiations, I have no idea if anyone has been successful but I doubt it will hurt to ask.

This is really stressful - I haven't heard anything. I wonder if the first round of people that were accepted all received the 75% tuition and if they are working backwards from there? I've seen that in previous years admits were sent in March with funding decisions in April. wondering if there is still hope for those of us who need lots of $$$

I'm putting my money on March 15 - however I'm hoping it's before then! Has anyone called the admissions office about this?

HOUBMA - I visited as well and was equally impressed - I love NYC and the puck building was inspiring. I've really enjoyed my interaction with the students and staff I've met. I haven't had a chance to meet any faculty but I've read a lot about them on the web. I agree that it would be even worse to be accepted with no funding- I'm curious to know how many people actually applied by Dec. 10th - because I feel like all of a sudden that deadline was on the website when I looked in November but I hadn't seen/noticed it before that. Perhaps there was a smaller group of people who applied for those awards. Pea - I didn't even know about Baruch; I'm going to take a look at their program as well. I know there are plenty of other reputable MPA programs but I'm set on living in NYC.

Yea - I think notification mid-march and then financial aid info a bit later on. I'm really crossing my fingers for a scholarship - NYC is expensive! However, I love the program and don't know what i'd do if I didn't get in.

Any one else apply? Did you meet the December 10th early deadline for the Goldberg Scholarship?

Has anyone applied to be an R.A. in the graduate or undergraduate dorms? I'm considering this and would like some input. Thanks!

Anyone else applying for admission?

I ended up declining. It was turning me crazy waiting for information and trying to get questions answered. I knew I'd incur massive debt and no one could tell me the chances of getting any funding in my second year. I decided to, instead, pursue my masters in higher ed and policy since I eventually want to get my PhD and teach. Astoundingly, when I've been in contact with this school, they have actually asked for my phone number and called me to discuss any questions. It means a lot when faculty go out of their way to help! Best of luck to all of you, this has been quite the interesting journey....

I am so frustrated with this whole thing...and decision time is coming! I STILL haven't received any information about financial aid. I am thinking maybe I should just re-apply in a few years instead of stressing about being broke and in debt. Can someone just make my decisions for me?

Any insight? I'm going to NYU in the Fall and looking for something near the path train. Is this area safe? Are there bars/coffee shops/etc.?

I got an email too. Only 25% tuition though...making my decision even harder!

I called again today. She said the end of the month but seemed unsure if they were sending out emails or snail mail - I also asked about housing information and she said that would come with the financial aid package/acceptance letters. Seems like they will send it out by Monday but I am also REALLY anxious and it could still be another week before we get info.

Desi- How was Wagner's admitted students day? I was unable to go.

I feel the pain...I need to decide if I should start interviewing for full-time jobs, planning a move to get my degree, applying to every job at NYU with tuition remission, or what! I am going crazy here and just would like a solid idea of where I will be next year. Hopefully I will know by this weekend!!!

I am in your same position except I'm still waiting on funding- but i need to decide if I will still attend the program without scholarships. A few factors to consider would be salary after graduation (you can contact the career office). For example, if you are making 60k a year how long would it take you to pay down student loans, etc. Also, do you have any debt from undergrad? This could add to your payments. Check to see if there are any scholarships available to students for second semester or if you could possibly get a position working at the university with tuition remission. Calling the department never hurts, as they may have more ideas on how to decrease your student debt. Realistically for me, as someone just 2 years out of undergrad, I feel if I don't get a scholarship I could benefit from more work experience and re-apply in a year or two- thus increasing my chance of aid. It's a really difficult decision, especially if you are really excited about the program- good luck!

great advice, thanks silencio!

My friend in grad school got an assistantship through the department where she did her undergrad which was a different department than where she was getting her masters. Is this common? How would I go about applying? There doesn't seem to be information on the websites.

I lived in Tempe for a year during undergrad. Coming from Chicago, the weather was awesome and the scenery beautiful. There is just a fresh warm feeling being there with all the mountains and palm trees. There are a few mountains 15 mins or so from campus that you can climb. One is camel back. Also I cannot remember the name but there is a stream/river type place where people go tubing nearby. Biking is common, there are trails everywhere and many students on campus ride to class. Scottsdale is really close and it is your typical rich suburb with lots of shopping, expensive cars, and yes (to answer the previous question) it is very dominated by whites. There are tons of upscale bars, restaurants, and lounges in this area as well. Many of the nightclubs are dominated by ASU students but I'm sure there are lounges that aren't. As a student I hardly ever went to Pheonix and felt that many of the activities centered around Tempe and Scottsdale with the occasional trip to Chandler (for the mall). I found it ABSOLUTELY necessary to have a car. I never had one and had to constantly depend on others to get rides to the grocery stores, etc. I remember one specific instance when I had to go to Best Buy to repair my computer and ended up having to make 3 connections and encountering some sketchy characters. It seemed to me that there was a drug problem, primarily cocaine and meth. Although I didn't really "hang-out" with people who did drugs this became quickly obvious. I ended up leaving Tempe/Scottsdale with a negative outlook of the place. Despite the weather, scenery, and outdoor activities I felt that many people were really into money and appearances. It seemed like the Beverly Hills of Arizona. I met a few down to earth people who could have conversations about things other than appearance, fashion, nice cars, designer clothes, and which clubs to frequent- but met many more who couldn't. I didn't appreciate the lack of diversity either. But if you are a person secure with yourself you can "get by" anywhere.

when did you both apply? It seems they contact people in the order in which they received their applications. It says on the website they strive to make a decision in 6 weeks. They may be waiting to send it out at the end of March when they send out financial aid information. Good luck, and you can always call- they have been extremely helpful over the phone!

I called too and they said not until March 30! I am dying here! Hopefully we will know soon. I'm also applying for some jobs in NYC as I'm sure I will need to work either way. Let me know when you find out.

I'd call...everyone at the admissions offices have been real helpful and they expect these types of questions

I called Wagner this a.m. and told them I had heard funding info was going out the 15th. The woman was very nice and said they were waiting on info. from the financial aid office and applicants would probably have to wait until March 30th. Good news for those of us who heard nothing....now it's just more waiting.

desigrrl: Both schools are really reputable, congrats! I think it comes down to which program you really love as well as cost of living. I really love that Wagner has an international specialization and an option to go abroad. I'm struggling with the same thing in NYC - it will be expensive and most people have to work at least part-time to keep up with costs. As far as working and going to school full-time, that may be a little difficult but I'm sure it can be done. Luckily Wagner offers classes during the day and at night to accommodate those who are working. Any idea on when we will hear on funding? I was told the 15th but haven't heard yet. Not sure if this means it's a no. Good luck!