MPP/MPA + work

[unknownscholar]

So, since I'm pretty much decided on GWU (pending a final decision from Gtown), I'm trying to figure out my work options. Their classes apparently don't start till the evening, so I'd have the option to work full time if I wanted to, but 40+ hours plus 9+ hours per semester seems like a lot. So I could possibly squeeze out 30 hours, and these are my options:

Currently, I work for a policy research firm NYC. I can keep this job, work remotely from DC and decrease my load by 15 hours, although I don't know how much I'd be paid per hour, since I'm on a salary. Since I already have a good report with this place, Its probably the most profitable and flexible option I have now, in terms of monetary value, since I'm not sure what the following org would offer yet.

I'm also interviewing with a policy research firm in DC, but I think they're looking for fulltime only, so I'm not sure how to broach the big question "how flexible is your company with those who are currently in a graduate program" when I interview with them soon.

and I am in the final round of interviews for a graduate internship related to local government policy work in DC, which will pay me part time, and some tuition; its a year round position for 2 years, but of course it's the least profitable (in terms of monetary value)

I plan to settle in DC, so I'm trying to figure out if DC-based policy work is more important than policy work in general. I'd like to be able to live comfortably in NW DC, but maybe not if it means that getting paid less now and going back to dorm living for 4 more years will mean I can live well for the rest thereafter.

Any insights?

[rising_star]

I know some people that do 6 hours of class and work full-time. It's tough but they manage it. 9 hours would be a lot more difficult. Would you be willing to do 6 hours of coursework each term?

[unknownscholar]

I'd consider part time, but I'm trying to get into GWU's law school next fall, and I'd like to show them a full time status at GWU. I won't be able to get them any grad grades or GPA since I'm applying early decision, but hopefully I'll muster up a recommendation from one of my professors there to help my case. ]

Maybe I'm trying to do too much..

[rising_star]

It's possible that you're trying to do too much. I think showing them that you're working a good, semi-related job plus managing 6 grad hours is enough but law school is finicky. I'm not sure they'll care at all about your courses, you know? Your best bet is a good LSAT score, good writing things, etc. And bribery. :wink: