Applying in Fall 2014

[cpwonders]

Hi everyone,

I am planning to apply to Higher Education master's programs this upcoming fall. I am taking a year off after graduation for an internship.

I was hoping to get some pointers for personal statements and suggestions for programs.

At the moment, UPenn & USC are at the top of my list but I wanted to get more insight from those of you who have already completed the process! I was reading through a lot of the threads and saw that many of you were extremely successful in getting accepted - congratulations! Any help is greatly appreciated. I would also like to know what led you to gain interest in the field of higher education!

[hesadork]

Welcome!  Tell us why UPenn and USC (both wonderful programs!) were especially attractive to you...

[cpwonders]

Well, my first attraction was to USC - its emphasis on urban education and the opportunity to immerse myself in a diverse area (not to say that other programs aren't as diverse). I also know of a few PASA graduates and they've complimented the program and the Trojan network. It also doesn't hurt that it's somewhat close to home. I've been following a lot of Dr. Gallagher's work and find myself really attracted to her research as well. UPenn's structure of its program and the work of the faculty I think got me interested in applying. Also, the location isn't anywhere near where I am but I think if I were to leave home for a bit, I would love to be in Philadelphia. Similar to USC, I've only heard good things about the GSE. Both of these schools have students write blogs so I've been reading a few of them and it's been interesting to hear about their experiences. I'm still not sure whether I would enjoy a 2 year program or a 1 year program as of now - I think there are pros and cons to both, so I'm still trying to determine which would fit better. Both of these schools are also ranked very highly and were given to me to consider by a few of my advisors!

[hesadork]

I would give some further thought to the 1 yr vs 2 yrs question. Longer programs are a great option for people with little-to-no full time professional experience in the field...provided that you have a financial arrangement (ie, an assistantship) that will offset the cost of the added time. Minimizing debt is key in this field. Re geography: are you really indifferent to west coast vs. east coast? LA and Philly could not be more different. Do you have a sense of where in the country you'd like to end up?

[cpwonders]

I live in Seattle, so I would like to eventually end up back here. Do you mind if I ask what program you're involved in and what led you to get involved with higher ed?

[hesadork]

I've been in the field for 16 years, mostly in admission and fundraising. I did my MSEd in HEA part time at Baruch here in NYC and absolutely loved it. Looking to apply to doctoral programs next fall. I've just always has a passion for higher Ed...ever since work study jobs in college!