I'm planning to defer my PhD admission to Temple for one year.

[Just Jeff]

Hey, all.

 

So, I got into Temple's PhD program in Philosophical Studies with no funding. I actually asked them if I could defer my admission for a year, and they said I had that option.

 

I'm a grad student at NYU getting my MA in Philosophy and Lit. I'm graduating in two weeks.

 

Sadly, I didn't get into any other PhD programs, and I feel that it's a bit silly to pay for a PhD. My adviser told me it would be best to defer admission and reapply in the fall.

 

So, what should my plan be to enhance my application? Here are my stats:

 

Undergraduate GPA at Rutgers: 3.751

Graduate GPA at NYU: 3.90

GRE Verbal: 155

GRE Analytical: 5.0

GRE Quantitative: 144

 

Yeah, my GRE scores suck. I'm planning to try Magoosh and retake the test this August. But here's another thing: I read somewhere on this forum that it would be beneficial to take summer courses at Columbia or U. Penn to meet new professors and somehow establish strong relationships with them. But I'm a bit skeptical on that.

 

What should my next steps be?

 

 

 

[hj2012]

Hey! It's you again.

 

At this point, you know what the problem is. Those GRE scores are way low for the schools you applied to; at places like my undergrad institution, your application would be immediately thrown out.

 

From what I remember from your past posts, another problem is likely your lack of focus. (What do you want? Philosophy? Lit? Crit theory? Narrow it down.) Make sure to really tailor your interests in your SOP. Did you only apply to Philosophy programs?

 

If you already have a master's degree, I don't really see additional coursework benefiting you. Focus on creating a cohesive application package (everything from your writing sample to the SoP should be connected) and apply to a diverse set of schools with strengths in your AOIs.

 

Good luck.

[naomi6]

How come you did't get accepted to NYU? also, do you have any research experience? Did you publish your MA thesis? 

[naomi6]

Another idea is to try to look for external funding that could cover the expenses of a PhD

[Just Jeff]

How come you did't get accepted to NYU? also, do you have any research experience? Did you publish your MA thesis? 

 

I have no idea. I am super bummed about it. I don't think I've ever been this depressed before. But I overheard one of the professors saying that NYU rarely accepts its MA students into the PhD program.

 

I did an independent research paper in college, but I don't think that's enough. I would like to gain more research experience, but I'm not sure where to start.

 

I actually also want to get my MA thesis on Homer published, but I don't know where to go.

 

I feel so lost...

[Just Jeff]

Another idea is to try to look for external funding that could cover the expenses of a PhD

 

That's definitely a good idea.

[ICanHazPhdPreez?]

Have you tried contacting departments you applied to and asking how to improve your application in the future?

[Lifesaver]

Ask a professor! Surely someone can help you publish. Where there's a will there's a way.

[Just Jeff]

Have you tried contacting departments you applied to and asking how to improve your application in the future?

 

That's a good idea. I did call NYU, and I'm just waiting to hear back on how I can improve my application.

[GeoDUDE!]

I think its very telling that you would have to "call" NYU when you've been apart of their department. Surely there is someone there you are friendly with. if i ever have a problem i could just walk into 1 of 5 professors at my current schools office no notice needed. Maybe NYU is a bit different, but its been that way no matter where i've been.

 

Getting into a PhD program can be as much about stats as it is being likeable. Not saying you arent, but perhaps you just havent networked enough ?

Edited April 9, 2014 by GeoDUDE!

[Just Jeff]

I think its very telling that you would have to "call" NYU when you've been apart of their department. Surely there is someone there you are friendly with. if i ever have a problem i could just walk into 1 of 5 professors at my current schools office no notice needed. Maybe NYU is a bit different, but its been that way no matter where i've been.

 

Getting into a PhD program can be as much about stats as it is being likeable. Not saying you arent, but perhaps you just havent networked enough ?

 

No offense man, but aren't you that angry dude from that chatroom?