an assistantship within the field? or no?

[kristinag]

Hey guys. So I recently found out that I was accepted to a program (which is the first step!). Obviously I am very excited however very nervous since I will not be getting any funding. I am going to try to get an assistantship/fellowship to help me financially. Is it bad that I am applying for ones that are not in my field of study? Some examples are working at the visitor center, library, etc. I know it cant be "bad" but how important is it that you get one within your program/field? Let me know your thoughts!!

 

[queenleblanc]

I'm going to be desperate for an assistantship if I get accepted... and if it's a GA, no issue with it being in another department or area.  GA's are usually doing administrative / secretarial work from what I've read lately, but you definitely should look at what the GA's do before you apply for or accept a GA position.  Ideally I'd love an RA in a lab in my department, but we can't always get everything we want!  

[RandiZ]

Personally, I'd much rather have a mindless admin job so I can focus on my coursework during the first year than TA or even RA. Through my classwork and participating in departmental talks I'd hope to show what I can do and be less stressed about it. I'll also have time to get to know various professors in my department and them know me.

[AboveTheRim]

Assuming you're in a Master's program, I would say securing an internship is more vital than securing an RA position over a GA.

The conversation completely changes if you're in a PHD program. But a non-funded PHD program isn't one worth attending.