Applying to grad school after dropping out? Help!

[wishingforPHD]

Hello,

I am not sure if this topic has already been addressed, but I looked for something like this and couldn't find anything.....

I am currently in a PhD program and I will be leaving after this semester for a lot of reasons (some personal, some academic). I have been accepted into an Ivy League school's MA program, and I am thinking about getting a second masters to help me focus my research interests (I am thinking about switching my focus) and to help me get into a better school at a better location. So while I am hoping that a second masters, especially one from an Ivy League school, will improve my chances of getting into another PhD program down the line, I am scared to death that having to admit that I left a program will kill my chances. Will schools only look at me as a financial risk and waste of time? Has anyone been in a similar situation?

[fuzzylogician]

I think it'll all come down to how you present the situation. Yes, having dropped out will hurt (or at least, can't help) you. But if you give a convincing rationale (="my interests shifted") and show passion for your new interest (="I'm getting an MA from an Ivy to help refine said interest") then there's no reason for schools to flat out exclude you from consideration. A lot will depend on the rec letters you'll get from your former school. IMO If they still support you and present your leaving in a favorable light, you should be fine.

[noojens]

Yes, the best thing you can do before leaving your PhD program is ensure a letter of recommendation from a faculty member you've worked with who understands and accepts your reasons for leaving.

If you can't secure such a letter, your worries may be justified.