Deferring?

[Displacement]

I've been accepted to a few Comparative Lit programs, and was wondering if anyone knows how Comp Lit programs specifically view requests for deferrals. This isn't a case of applying before I was ready; I was fully intending to go (and still wish I could). But both my parents were recently laid off in this lovely economic climate and my siblings are both still at pricey colleges, so it seems the only way we can manage is if I work for a year and live at home (really looking forward to that...). Does anyone know how lit departments specifically would react to this? I know it's very frowned upon, but I don't really have a choice - if they don't give it to me, then I guess I'm reapplying next year.

Thanks, all.

[lyonessrampant]

I don't know specifically about comp lit, but I know that all of the English programs I've looked at directly say they won't allow deferrals. However, perhaps the programs you've been accepted to will make an exception for you since your reasons for not going next year are both noble and exceptional. I admire your choice to put your family first. I hope everything works out. I guess if I was you, I would contact each of the programs you've been accepted to and explain the situation. If possible, I'd speak first to the professor who contacted you about admission to try and get an advocate in the department who might side with you when you have to approach the DGS. Good luck!

[Lisa]

I asked a professor about deferrals and she said it depends on the reason. For me, I might defer only because I'm also a finalist for a Fulbright scholarship to Germany, and my intended degree is comp lit with a primary emphasis in German lit. The professor I spoke to seemed really excited for this possibility for me and said she can't imagine them not approving it. So, I guess some schools are open to it. If I get the Fulbright, though, I'm really torn on what to do. Both possibilities really excite me, but I hate to put off a phd program longer. I'll already be 29 when I enter. Yet, a Fulbright is such an amazing experience (if I in fact do get it). This is a little premature (since I haven't received the Fulbright yet), but any suggestions on what to do if I do. Take the fulbright and defer or reject the fulbright and go straight to grad school.

[lyonessrampant]

If I was you (and got a guaranteed approval for the deferral) I'd do the Fulbright and then Ph.D. work. It sounds like the type of experience that may not be replicable and would add a lot to your scholarly aptitude. Besides, it is an opportunity that might not come again. Also, while you'll likely be able to get funding for summer research or something to go to Germany to build an archive, you might not have the same funding and/or research opportunities. Also, just a thought, but if your heart was set on a school you didn't get into or eventually learn you didn't get into, then applying again with a Fulbright under your belt might get you where you want to be. Good luck either way!

[Spritely]

Displacement: You can only tell by talking to them, but especially with the lack of funding and how uncertain things are year to year, I would say they are generally going to be hesitant to let you defer. Boston U has an interesting system where those admitted can defer the review of their application to a second year for free, but you are not guaranteed to be readmitted (I, in fact, was not readmitted the second time around). In any case, at least you have a noble reason for deferring, so it's worth making your case to the Departments.

Lyoness: I would absolutely take the award and put off school for a year. It will probably help you get into more programs the next time you apply and it's a singular achievement and an experience you don't want to pass up. Congrats!

[Yellow#5]

Lisa,

Is it a teaching Fulbright in Germany? Absolutely take it! (and try and go to Munich or Berlin, because the small German towns are nearly as interesting).

Take it, take it, it will look good on your resume forever.

As for the deferal for economic reasons, I think many schools are more apt to let you take a semester or two off because of economic hardship. If you can swing it for a Semester or a year on loans, try and do it that way. You never know, in a year, things may be looking up for your parents.

[edgarparker]

I'm in a similar position as Lisa. I'm a finalist for a Fulbright to Spain, but have been admitted to two PhD programs--one of which has offered unbeatable funding. It's a tough decision...

[Lisa]

Edgar,

Have you heard when we find out for the Fulbright (other than sometime before May 15)? I know all the countries notify at different times, but I'm just getting anxious to know so that I can decide what to do. Will your programs let you defer and keep your funding??

[edgarparker]

I have no idea when we will hear about the Fulbright. ("The suspense is terrible. I hope it will last" - Oscar Wilde) I'm assuming before April 15... Regardless, even if I win the Fulbright, I think I will be declining. After consulting with the Fulbright advisor at my home institution, she and I both think it will be in my best interest to begin my PhD coursework and then perhaps reapply for a Fulbright when I begin dissertation research.