University of Chicago SSA

[clearbluesky22]

I'm not applying until next fall, but UC so far is my first choice program. Any current students have any application advice? Anything I should be doing until next fall to strengthen my application? 

[2011 MSW Hopeful]

Specific advice is difficult, because my class, at least, is really diverse! There is a mix of people who came straight from undergrad with strong academic records and research/volunteer experience, and people who have worked as professionals in various fields. A lot of people in my cohort seemed to have 2-4 years' experience in the social services field before starting the program. If I could have done anything differently, I'd have wished for a higher undergrad GPA - SSA is great with need/merit-based aid to everyone, but there are some extra scholarships and research assistantships for people whose undergrad records are really amazing. Unfortunately, you can't lobby for them, they're just awarded based on your application. 

Edited February 2, 2013 by 2011 MSW Hopeful

[clearbluesky22]

Thanks for the reply! My situation is a little complicated, I went back to get my BSW after not finishing my first degree. In between , I worked so I do have some experience, not all in human services though. I'm looking to either volunteer or work this summer to get more relevant experience, and in my final year of the BSW program we do a year long field placement.  My GPA at my current school is a 3.8, so I'm working hard to keep it there.

[Cat Face]

Specific advice is difficult, because my class, at least, is really diverse! There is a mix of people who came straight from undergrad with strong academic records and research/volunteer experience, and people who have worked as professionals in various fields. A lot of people in my cohort seemed to have 2-4 years' experience in the social services field before starting the program. If I could have done anything differently, I'd have wished for a higher undergrad GPA - SSA is great with need/merit-based aid to everyone, but there are some extra scholarships and research assistantships for people whose undergrad records are really amazing. Unfortunately, you can't lobby for them, they're just awarded based on your application. 

@2011 MSW Hopeful

I'm an international applicant for 2013 fall and just accepted by the MSW program of SSA.

Since it's inconvenient for me to have a campus visiting or something, I hope to get more information about the programs and schools to weigh my options.

 

I'm wondering about the situations of international students in the class of SSA. Will it be difficult for them to catch up with the courses and to find an internship? Are there any chances of TA or RA?

Since I plan to apply for a Phd after finish the master degree and do research, are there any research chances and resources for the MSW students? Will the students be able to have courses of other disciplines (anthropology, sociology or so)?

[MSWGirl2013]

I'm not applying until next fall, but UC so far is my first choice program. Any current students have any application advice? Anything I should be doing until next fall to strengthen my application? 

I am a hopeful applicant to SSA and don't know their decision regarding my application status.  However, I can tell you that I have a strong GPA (3.9) and significant clinically related research experience and customer service-related employment experience.  One thing I wish I had done, that I think might hurt my application, is have social work related experience.  I would recommend working, volunteering or doing an internship to gain social work related experience over the coming months before you apply.  Good luck!!!

[2011 MSW Hopeful]

@2011 MSW Hopeful

I'm an international applicant for 2013 fall and just accepted by the MSW program of SSA.

Since it's inconvenient for me to have a campus visiting or something, I hope to get more information about the programs and schools to weigh my options.

 

I'm wondering about the situations of international students in the class of SSA. Will it be difficult for them to catch up with the courses and to find an internship? Are there any chances of TA or RA?

Since I plan to apply for a Phd after finish the master degree and do research, are there any research chances and resources for the MSW students? Will the students be able to have courses of other disciplines (anthropology, sociology or so)?

 

You are assigned your first year internship by the school, and the second year internship is selected via an application/interview process. Everyone definitely gets internships. I can't speak as much to the international student experience of classes, other than to say that classes are pretty intense but there are a lot of resources (writing tutors, etc.) to help you along. First year research assistantships are offered competitively based on merit, but it's pretty easy to find paid or volunteer research assistant jobs in other departments and, as a second year, at SSA.

[Cat Face]

You are assigned your first year internship by the school, and the second year internship is selected via an application/interview process. Everyone definitely gets internships. I can't speak as much to the international student experience of classes, other than to say that classes are pretty intense but there are a lot of resources (writing tutors, etc.) to help you along. First year research assistantships are offered competitively based on merit, but it's pretty easy to find paid or volunteer research assistant jobs in other departments and, as a second year, at SSA.

Thx for the sharing! ~o>_<o~

It helps a lot!

It seems really a great choice to go to SSA!