highlanders Posted March 18, 2011 Posted March 18, 2011 Hi all, Like many others on this board, I'm looking for perspective on how to go about selecting my MA program. Overall, my career objective is to teach at the university level...how typical . Academic interests are in resolving tensions between lower and higher theologies and improving dialogue between western and eastern churches. Ideally, I'd love a school that supports a balance between social justice and philosophical theology. Currently, I'm down to BC and Yale. Cost of attendence is sort of a big deal to me, but some older and wiser folks have advised that over the course of a lifetime, a difference of 20k in loans is not really a major detriment to being able to support yourself. Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks! BC Positives Boston location BTI Cost of attendance (would only need to take out minimal loans for cost of living) Proven history of improving relations between west/east churches BC Negatives Already went to a Jesuit undergrad, concerned about being pegged as too Catholic Overall, moderately conservative program...but there are times when certain figures step in and start slapping wrists...I do not want to be in a stiffled academic environment. Am I overestimating this? Lack of diversity amongst faculty and students Yale Positives More diverse course offerings Diversity (an old wooden ship) Networking/Opening doors...we all can't assume that we're getting PhDs aftewards, so what then? Suppose I want to use my degree towards something else? Yale Negatives Cost (would need 40k in loans over 2 years for tuition and living expenses)
Phenomenologist Posted March 18, 2011 Posted March 18, 2011 Currently, I'm down to BC and Yale. Cost of attendence is sort of a big deal to me, but some older and wiser folks have advised that over the course of a lifetime, a difference of 20k in loans is not really a major detriment to being able to support yourself. We have similar interests--ecumenism, social justice, philosophical theology! I think this quote here is crucial. If you're willing to follow their advice and take out extra loans for the extra cost of attendance to one school or the other, you've essentially decided to make money no object -- finances should not weigh as much into the equation. Thus, your list will look different: BC will have only three pro's and three con's, but Yale will have three pro's and zero con's. I know what you mean about not wanting to double-up on programs with similar confessional identities. I did my undergrad at a Reformed/evangelical school, so I was hoping to stray from that area for my next step. It'd be cool to go to a Catholic program for my PhD, and then have an even more well-rounded CV . But if you decide to take the loans either way and not let money get in the way, it changes the decision.
highlanders Posted March 18, 2011 Author Posted March 18, 2011 Thanks for your response! I can tell by your signature you've had a successful application season, congrats! The BC Admitted Students Day will be important- I really need to walk away knowing that the program is top-notch, cares about the issues I've listed, the faculty make themselves accessible, etc. I'm assuming you've spent a good amount of time learning about Yale. What's your sense of the student body/community so far?
Phenomenologist Posted March 18, 2011 Posted March 18, 2011 I'm assuming you've spent a good amount of time learning about Yale. What's your sense of the student body/community so far? Thanks a bunch! And you're right -- admitted student visit days would be crucial to helping you decide. I actually only recently received word from Yale, so I am still doing my research =). But PM me in a bit and I may have more insight! That being said, there seem to be a few Yale vets on here, which may be able to offer insight .
kmayhem Posted March 21, 2011 Posted March 21, 2011 Come to the admitted students day, meet with other students, get a feel for the community, speak with Dr Anatolios, and keep in mind that the BTI has a lot to offer as far as courses and practical work relating to your research interests. And a degree from Boston College's School of Theology and Ministry is only going to appreciate in value, I can guarantee you that. Honestly, speaking as a current BC STM student, I love it here, have never felt stifled in my research or theology, and wish I didn't have to leave this amazing community! But sometimes there are offers you can't refuse Best of luck to you in your discernment and at the STM's admitted students day!
highlanders Posted March 23, 2011 Author Posted March 23, 2011 Come to the admitted students day, meet with other students, get a feel for the community, speak with Dr Anatolios, and keep in mind that the BTI has a lot to offer as far as courses and practical work relating to your research interests. And a degree from Boston College's School of Theology and Ministry is only going to appreciate in value, I can guarantee you that. Honestly, speaking as a current BC STM student, I love it here, have never felt stifled in my research or theology, and wish I didn't have to leave this amazing community! But sometimes there are offers you can't refuse Best of luck to you in your discernment and at the STM's admitted students day! In the past day, the momentum has gone back to BC. I just want it to be September already.
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