For Non-Academic Track Grad School Applicants...

[pea-jay]

Overall, I have found the Gradcafe to be quite helpful and entertaining. But I cannot help but notice that a majority of folks are on some academic-oriented track of one sort or another. Nothing wrong with that, I've learned a lot about your guy's issues. I'm creating this topic for commentary and what not for those that are getting a masters for more professional reasons and have no near term interest in academia.

Some things to discuss: (with my answers)

Why are you pursuing a masters?

It will significantly improve my career opportunities and compensation

How's the process been for you?

My experiences as a prospective Public Administration grad student appear to be quite different than someone pursuing a masters in one of the humanities.

How are you going to pay for this?

One school on mine offers zero funding (there are TA/RA opportunities though) and the other's is quite limited for most. Only a select few will get a funded education.

Are you still waiting for any responses?

yep, all of them

I guess I'm just tossing this subject out for some consideration, especially if you are in a similar boat. If you are in an academic track, feel free to add as well. Ignore my questions and add your own in. Have fun.

Edited February 9, 2010 by pea-jay

[socnerd]

I'm so glad someone brought this up because I was beginning to feel like the only one who doesn't want to go into academia. I mean I kind of feel sorry for everyone that does because the job prospects are so minimal, getting a tenure track job these days is like winning the lottery! Not to knock anyone that does it, I would probably love to do such a thing but I'm a bit more realistic in my career aspirations (probably because I don't have the credentials to go after something like that). Well anyway here are your answers

Why are you pursuing a masters?

It's pretty much a requirement for any job where I would be able to use my knowledge from undergraduate. WIth sociology a B.A. is pretty worthless, you need at least a Master's to be considered for research either in the public or private sector, which is what I'm after.

How's the process been for you?

Stressful and depressing mostly. I've found that I have very little chance of getting in anywhere because my grades/scores are less than perfect, thus I have applied to about 15 schools and made my recommenders nuts but they have been so great and understanding.

How are you going to pay for this?

I just assumed I'd be paying for it out of pocket (meaning my parents would be paying for it) but they have no problem with that. I wasn't aware that people even got funding or did this stuff for free until I started lurking on this board and learning more about it, but I understand that Master's programs are rarely funded anyway. I know I won't be able to get into a PhD program although I did apply to some, but I'm fine with paying for it just like undergraduate.

Are you still waiting for any responses?

Yes, all of them... all 15! I really hope I get in somewhere, otherwise I have no idea what I'm going to do with myself after I graduate.

Good luck to all!

[Diverchica]

I'm also glad you started this post! I was beginning to feel out of the loop I just found the professional programs board, and got pretty excited about that as well.

Why are you pursuing a masters?

Having just a B.S. in wildlife conservation, doesnt really allow for permanent jobs, with decent salaries. I also want to do more applied research, that has political implications. I'd rather go into environmental management, than go completely environmental science.

How's the process been for you?

Very different from traditional MS programs, as I've applied to both, to keep my options open. The issue of funding and 'fit' with an advisor have been the most different. With an MS, a lot of professors wont accept you if they can't fund you, and they have to actually want to work with you as their student, wheras with professional programs, its almost like applying to undergrad.

How are you going to pay for this?

Loans, loans loans.... Maybe a research assistantship to cover some of the cost, hopefully some scholarship too! If i even get in

Are you still waiting for any responses?

Haven't gotten one yet!

[Jennszoo]

Why are you pursuing a masters?

I've decided I want to become a speech/language pathologist and a masters is required to get licensed in most states.

How's the process been for you?

Not too bad. I am not going to relo, so I only applied to the 2 closest schools that offered the programs. GRE sucked but I did well on it, so I am happy. Worst part was LORs. Its been too long since I was in college to get an academic reference and then I had to nag and nah the ones who did say they would write for me.

How are you going to pay for this?

No idea. Both schools are state univs so that helps. Loans, begging for an assistanceship. I also have 3 kids who will need some sort of childcare (two will be school aged). It will be a struggle. But thankfully, I know that after the 3 yrs, I should be gainfully employable.

Are you still waiting for any responses?

I have an interview this Fri for my first choice school. Have not heard from the 2nd choice, but their deadline wasnt until 2/5.