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UCSD IR/PS
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Date: January 9th, 2009 3:59 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab Subject: Anyone apply to UCSD IR/PS? Has anyone applied to UCSD's IR/PS MPIA program? Has anyone interviewed with them yet?
What are your stats?
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Date: January 9th, 2009 5:50 PM Author: Appetizing Violet Theatre Don't waste your time or money. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10685687) |
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Date: January 9th, 2009 8:13 PM Author: fighting orchestra pit mexican seriously.
the only IR degrees worth getting are from G-Town, WW, or JHU |
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Date: January 12th, 2009 3:35 PM Author: Dashing Corner Nibblets False. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10705036) |
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Date: January 13th, 2009 12:34 AM Author: cobalt sticky locale Actually it's sort of correct. If you can't get into a KSG/WWS/SIPA/SAIS/Fletcher, then it's not really worth it. G-town, American/GW are ok, but lower than this is pretty bad. UCSD has 0 connections/network in DC, so what exactly is the point of this degree? You could read the books on your own if you're only in it for the knowledge and not the network. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10709561) |
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Date: January 13th, 2009 4:15 AM Author: Crusty aqua personal credit line The fed, treasury, GAO? wrong. it has connections in dc. I believe the majority of those at the latin america desk in treasury are IR/PS grads (there are only like 6 people so not as crazy as it sounds).
Depends on what you want. When it comes to politics, your assessment is correct. IR/PS is rather weak in that area. Want to work for a think tank? Congressman? Yeah, not worth it.
American and GW are a joke academically compared to IR/PS. But yes, I admit they are better for networking. On the flip-side they're pretty useless for the private sector.
And why are you connecting G-town to those other 2 dc schools? Its a nod above them.
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Date: January 13th, 2009 7:50 AM Author: cobalt sticky locale G-town is a nod above those 2, but a nod below the others. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10710901) |
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Date: January 24th, 2009 1:34 PM Author: Marvelous Property Gunner Other than working for the federal government at the GS-9, 48 K a year level, no policy / IR school outside of DC save for the "big five" or those related to elite schools at large is going to give you any meaningful edge in the private or multilateral sectors. Even then, I believe this board massively overestimates the value of attending particular schools, as work experience is by far the major determinant of success.
The only reason GW and American do well is because the students can be perpetual interns on the side. The downside is, if you neglect to intern or cannot find something good, you are almost instantly labeled as professionally incapable. You are not under that kind of heat at say, KSG or WWS.
But the number of employers who will either: value a UCSD degree because its a UC, think a major in *insert IR sounding area* that are a dime a dozen in DC is unique, or know about faculty or curricular strengths is next to zero. Seriously, the number of people in DC who have no clue about schools other than their own is amazingly high.
I am not knocking the education it can offer you, but be careful about the investment side of the deal. You would be better off taking a full ride to literally any other school that offers the courses you want, even if it is totally unknown for IR (e.g. University of Connecticut or something), especially so if the school is in a place where you could land some decent policy internships (e.g. George Mason). The only way I would pay full fare for off label school was if I could go part-time and hold down a decent job. |
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Date: January 12th, 2009 3:50 PM Author: Pea-brained brethren station doesn't socal have mass concentration of iranians? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10705117) |
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Date: January 12th, 2009 10:25 PM Author: Irate shaky site headpube Subject: UCSD I also plan on applying to UCSD this fall. It seems to be a good program in a variety of ways. The professors are certainly renowned and the regional specialization seems to be of high quality. You should use this website as one of many resources but do not overly rely on it.
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Date: June 3rd, 2009 11:58 PM Author: Bisexual Hateful Casino Kitty Subject: People on here are crazy I think it is funny when people say things like "going anywhere besides KSG/SIPA/SIAS is a waste of time." It says several things about the person posting: (1) they don't know anything about how the world works and (2) they are probably bored undergrads with nothing better to do.
First, MAs in IRs are more or less all the same. Even if you go to SAIS, you aren't gonna learn anything you couldn't learn couldn't learn with a public library card, a few good podcasts and dedication. So the difference between the best and the worst (academically) is minimal. You would be better off looking for schools where the faculty actually interacts with students (I hear American and UCSD are good about this and the others aren't...good luck getting a Harvard professor to talk to a masters student).
Second, wake up and realize the reality of personal finances (most undergrads are still on daddy's payroll so they don't get this). I believe, anything over 50K in loans for a masters in IR is INSANE. Out of school you are SUPER lucky if you make high 60s/low 70s, you can make 50 if you have past work experience and for those with no experience you are looking at 30-40. You will spend the rest of your life paying off loans (plug in your numbers here and see what I mean http://www.chasestudentloans.com/student-loan-resources/loan-repayment-calculator.html).
A lot of people talk about "networks" and, yes, I do believe these matter and are important. But realize, everyone is gunning for an entry-level position at all these "awesome employers" (top think-tanks, cool government agencies, top consulting firms, etc...) and all the top (by top I mean the FULL members of the APSIA) schools have access, via alumni, to these type positions (the exception to this was SAIS and SIPA would slip some people into Wall Street every year, but that's gone now anyways). I know we see guys like Geither that went to SAIS and think that matters. The reality is, once you are in the door, where you went to school matters ZERO (anyone with real work experience knows how true this is).
So, my choice was simple. UCSD is the "best" ranked public school. So it cost the least by far and the difference in network is minimal. I agree that not being in D.C. is a huge drawback, but all schools have hurdles. I look forward (when I start my job search in a few years) to having to compete with people whose resume include their undergrad on-campus job and a graduate unpaid internships. My two years work experience at a Big 4 accounting firm working with a ton of Fortune 100 companies is head and shoulders better than the that. I don't mean to sound arrogant but want people reading this to realize rankings aren't everything.
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Date: June 4th, 2009 9:12 AM Author: supple knife Congrats, UCSD seems like a pretty good program, and you can't beat SD in terms of quality of life.
I agree with most of what you say, except the library card comment. I've taken a number of quantitative classes and language classes that I really would not have been able to study on my own - it took a professor pushing me hard to be able to learn it. Furthermore, when you learn on your own you don't have your ideas criticized by classmates/ professors. The big problem with well-read, self educated people is that they can be dogmatic since they have never had their ideas challenged. |
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Date: June 4th, 2009 3:57 PM Author: Bisexual Hateful Casino Kitty Subject: I'll concede a few to el_lobo I agree. Math and Language are good exceptions to what I was getting at. And UCSD has one of the strongest math components from what I've heard (you have to take three semesters of QM).
And, yes, just reading it isn't the same as discussing it. I was just trying to make a point. :-)
The more important point I was making relates to the idea that the D.C. programs are worth 80-100K in debt.
I just found out yesterday that I will probably be receiving 10K a year in grants from the school based on need base aid (freaken awesome!). If so, that will bring my debt when I graduate to between 20-30K. The ONLY school I would have gone to over UCSD is KSG, because I do that that school is worth the debt. But, I had no chance of getting in. All these other schools, SIPA/SIAS/SFS are not worth 80K in debt. I would challenge anyone that thinks they are to tell me what job you can get out of there (that you can't get from UCSD) that makes it worth the debt. And DO NOT say that while you are taking classes there an unpaid internship at some obscure government agency or some unknown ideological think tank makes a difference when you are looking for a job out of school. If you think that, you don't know sh*t
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Date: January 13th, 2009 9:43 AM Author: hyperventilating salmon scourge upon the earth set Subject: Timothy Smith is correct Timothy Smith is correct in his posts, the further you get from the east coast/dc, the more difficult networking becomes. In terms of prestige, check the Foreign Policy rankings for IR programs if you want - this is not gospel by any means, but the best list I've seen so far |
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Date: January 14th, 2009 10:36 AM Author: Balding Persian Rehab I don't really agree with Tim either. I know IR/PS is far from DC, so the connection is weak as far as distance goes. However, IR/PS is pretty strong as far as their IR program, plus they offer a really broad education. They offer a business aspect into their program, which is really unique and prepared you to work in any sector upon graduation. Plus they have a dedicated career service center that works with you weven before you start classes! Even if I wanted to work in DC, I dont think that having an IR/PS degree would make me less of a candidate for jobs.
I am intested in Int'l Development in SE Asia and CA is the place to be for studies on the Pacific Rim---especially since UCSD is the only school whose program is concentrated on the Pacific region and Latin America. |
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Date: January 14th, 2009 12:33 PM Author: hyperventilating salmon scourge upon the earth set It's ranked 11th, so it's in no way a bad program. It just very clearly is not SFS, SAIS, KSG, Fletcher, SIPA, or WWS. That is all. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10718064) |
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Date: January 20th, 2009 2:55 AM Author: Crusty aqua personal credit line The development track is not that strong at IR/PS. If you end up there, do the management or econ track.
The two professors focused on SEA rock too.
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Date: January 14th, 2009 10:36 AM Author: Balding Persian Rehab kmita, Did you apply early decision or regular? Have you interviewed with them yet? |
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Date: January 19th, 2009 10:42 PM Author: Irate shaky site headpube Subject: UCSD I will be applying during the fall of 2009 for 2010. I have been trying to get in touch with a current student to get some insight. I did research the website on student profiles but how flexible is the school as far as standardized test scores?
If you do not mind, I would like to chat with you through e-mail. I did let the admissions office know that I wanted to contact a current student but all the staff seem to be busy. Please let me know. |
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Date: January 21st, 2009 11:38 AM Author: Balding Persian Rehab Subject: kmita send me your email and i will email you. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10763507) |
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Date: January 22nd, 2009 4:07 PM Author: Irate shaky site headpube Subject: Thanks. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10772204) |
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Date: January 14th, 2009 1:30 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab 11th is not bad--that is right. But I really dont care that it is not as prestegious as the Ivy Leagues. IR/PS a good program and it's not any less of a program because it does not have the Harvard or Yale name attached. It's all about what you make of your education and how you get yourself out there, etc. |
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Date: January 15th, 2009 4:58 AM Author: hyperventilating salmon scourge upon the earth set It's not less of a program because of it's name, in fact a lot of the top programs in IR are outside of the Ivy League. It's less of a program because the quality of faculty/students it attracts, when compared to top tier schools, is second rate. |
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Date: January 20th, 2009 2:53 AM Author: Crusty aqua personal credit line Eh, i'd wager it is the former actually. It is 20 years old, so pretty young. It was higher than the University of Denver, but then Rice's fame probably bumped it up (I think DU is now higher, but i could be wrong).
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Date: January 22nd, 2009 3:00 PM Author: Amethyst Temple Subject: OP To answer the original poster's questions...
I've applied to IR/PS for the Fall 09 year. I interviewed recently as well. It's my second time interviewing/applying with them. I was admitted last year, but didn't end up going to grad school.
The interview is fairly casual, I think. I had a great feeling about it both times.
My stats? 3.6 from a mediocre undergrad. Major in IR, minor in East Asian Studies. A couple of decent internships (State Dept and UN). 2 years abroad. Strong Mandarin skills. 710 -Quant, 600 - Verbal, and 5.0 - Writing.
Last year applied to UCSD, GW, SIPA, Fletcher, and SAIS. Admitted at UCSD and GW. This year I applied to the same, and I'm expecting the same results. But, I will actually enroll this time.
GradSchoolLOL: Before you say it, I know already. Thanks for looking out for me though. |
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Date: January 22nd, 2009 3:07 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab Did you apply early decision at UCSD? I had an interview too, with Barbra Blake, Assistant Dean and it seemed to go well. Do you know if they only interview top applicants?
I hope we hear from them soon. It is already mid-January. |
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Date: January 22nd, 2009 4:09 PM Author: Irate shaky site headpube Subject: Thanks. SAIS must be super competitive. Your stats appear to be decent. How many years of work experience did you have excluding your internships? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10772218) |
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Date: January 22nd, 2009 7:54 PM Author: Amethyst Temple vtima7: I did apply for the priority deadline, yes. I'm not sure how their interview process works, in regard to whether they only interview top applicants. I will say that I was interviewed and admitted within two weeks last time, and this time I was told over the phone that I'd hear back before February 1st (again within two weeks) and that I'd "probably be offered admission."
kmita: I would also characterize my stats as decent. I'm not an amazing applicant and I'm unlikely to be offered any funding.
My work experience is definitely a weak point. I went abroad for a year after graduating and did a mix of studying/work/internship. I returned to the US this summer and have since been working at a job that is completely unrelated to IR and is essentially a waste of time. Which is why one might feel inclined to take the debt, and get the MA degree... clinging to the hope that they may do something more interesting... |
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Date: January 22nd, 2009 10:11 PM Author: out-of-control bright partner corn cake Bedcreme,
Just outta curiosity, were you fresh outta school when you applied the first time around?
Also, was your one of your two years abroad a study abroad year?
I thought you had decent stats as well...I'm pretty confused as well with regard to what admissions staff are looking for. On one hand, some people make it out as if you need to have some amazing WE to get into SAIS/SIPA etc. but I've also met people who have good experiences abroad, but nothing spectacular. |
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Date: January 22nd, 2009 10:24 PM Author: Irate shaky site headpube Subject: Good luck! I guess it depends on the program but SAIS appears to emphasize work experience than some of the other IR programs. Looking at the stats it seems like a lot of the graduates do successfully enter the private sector. This also means that the program is a hybrid of theory and practical application.
You might be right. Work experience may have hurt you for some of the other schools on your list. I am sure wherever you go, you will prove your value. The brand recognition of the school is important to an extent but your personal drive and effort is what matters most.
Good luck with the rest of your application process. Since I am an applicant for 2010, I will be walking through the same rigorous process at this time next year.
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Date: January 22nd, 2009 10:38 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab who did you interview with? the person I interviewed with said that i was a good fit for the school and that she doesnt tell every applicant that. So, i am hopeful, but still worried. she said we should hear by jan 26th! but i am hoping to hear this week!
let me know if you hear anything. |
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Date: January 22nd, 2009 11:36 PM Author: out-of-control bright partner corn cake vtima7,
Did u interview on campus? how long did it take for them to contact you after you submitted your application?
where else are you applying? |
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Date: January 23rd, 2009 7:16 AM Author: Balding Persian Rehab Subject: escincau escincau, I interviewed over the phone. I believe they only had phone interviews. I submitted my entire epplication pretty early---early-mid November. I got contacted for an interview in the first week of January.
I applied to UCLA, NYU, and Columbia. Although UCSD is my first choice b/c I am interested in International Development and Asian Studies, so I would do my regional concentration in SE Asia or China.
How about you? Have you heard back from UCSD? |
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Date: January 24th, 2009 4:19 AM Author: out-of-control bright partner corn cake Subject: vtima7 vtima7, I haven't heard back from UCSD since I just turned in apps for the second round. I wanted to apply first round but only returned from being abroad in December and it would have been too much trying to take the GRE and deal with getting recs in before Dec 1.
It sounds like you're going to get in...so congrats! I agree with what you said in the other thread-don't worry about name all that much-IR/PS sounds like a good fit for your interests and,of course, it'll be a lot cheaper. |
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Date: January 23rd, 2009 1:39 AM Author: outnumbered poppy principal's office Reading your comments about the interview process...I applied for priority decision, but havent even gotten an interview. I am assuming I will receive a rejection shortly, but was wondering if you knew anything about this interview process. Do they interview everyone or only top candidates? Any knowledge you can provide about this process would be appreciated. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10776198) |
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Date: January 23rd, 2009 7:19 AM Author: Balding Persian Rehab Subject: hamfighter hamfighter, I dont know who they interview---if it is only for top applicants for for people who they need more information from.
Where else did you apply? Let me know if you hear from them. I remember getting an email saying that they hope to get priority decisions out by mid-January. |
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Date: January 23rd, 2009 6:00 PM Author: outnumbered poppy principal's office In addition to UCSD, I applied to BU, American, GW and U of Denver. I have heard many different things about the interview process so I thought I would come on here and get some clarification, but still seems like no one knows about the UCSD interview process - if its everyone or not. I know their website has some info. on it, but the emails I have received conflict with that information. Its not a big deal, Ill just wait until early Feb and hopefully will hear back. Good luck to the rest of you applying there. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10779100) |
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Date: January 23rd, 2009 6:09 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab Subject: hamfighter best of luck to you. Where are you from? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10779147) |
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Date: January 23rd, 2009 12:39 PM Author: Irate shaky site headpube Subject: UCSD Since I will be applying this year for 2010 I am no expert but the website said that the admissions office will try to interview "most" candidates. I do not think you should automatically assume that you have been rejected. Just my thoughts. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10777454) |
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Date: January 23rd, 2009 4:25 PM Author: Amethyst Temple Subject: reply escincau: I was out of school when I applied to UCSD for the first time.
And one of the two years of my abroad experience was in fact from study abroad. I spent my junior year in China, and returned for another year after graduating and applied to UCSD that fall.
As far as my chances with the "reach" schools like SAIS, SIPA, and Fletcher... Well, I think the grad application in some ways is a crap shoot. You hear of people being rejected from GW, but in at the aforementioned schools. Unfortunately for me, the schools have been fairly consistent in handing out rejections. Ah well.
hamfighter: I wouldn't count yourself out yet. I'm not sure what the thought process is for interviewing people. What are your stats like, out of curiosity? |
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Date: January 23rd, 2009 4:46 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab Subject: BedCreme BedCreme, Who did you interview with? I just emailed Jason Packson, Admissions Counselor, and he said that they are still interviewing applicants and that we would know in the first week of Feb! What ever happened to mid-January?
I am going out of town for 10 days with very limited access to email and was hoping to hear back from then before Feb :( |
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Date: January 24th, 2009 8:36 AM Author: Amethyst Temple Subject: Interview I interviewed with Amanda Randolph, the Director of Degree Programs. I was told we'd hear by Feb 1st.
I'm obviously curious to hear back, but I'm not so anxious. What's the point really? We won't be told about financial aid with the acceptance letter. I guess if you're financially set and just want to be admitted, that doesn't matter. But I'm not, and it does.
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Date: January 23rd, 2009 6:09 PM Author: outnumbered poppy principal's office In terms of stats, I would say I am on the low end, but have a good 5 years of work experience abroad which should help for weak stats. We shall see....but not even receiving an invite to interview and reading how all of you guys have already interviewed, it makes me wonder. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10779150) |
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Date: March 30th, 2009 4:21 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab BedCreme, Have you heard back from SIPA?
Are you going to Admitted STudent day at IR/PS? |
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Date: March 30th, 2009 4:31 PM Author: Amethyst Temple Yeah, I was rejected by SIPA after being in that group of 3% that was waiting to hear back.
I'm not going to IR/PS admitted student day. They offered me no funding, so I'm going to go with GW because of the location. I was also wait listed at SAIS, so in the off chance I'm admitted to their program I at least won't have a problem switching cities.
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Date: March 30th, 2009 4:40 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab I am part of that 3% too, but I still have not heard!
Did you get funding from GW? I would tihnk that GW would be way more expensive than IR/PS. |
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Date: April 1st, 2009 9:24 AM Author: Amethyst Temple No fellowship for me. I guess I'll find out about need-based funding after accepting admission.
Yes, GW is probably going to be considerably more expensive. I'm just trying to continue that American mentality of "I'll pay later." |
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Date: April 1st, 2009 10:24 AM Author: seedy comical parlor antidepressant drug Subject: Bedcreme Hey Bedcreme - can we get in touch? I'll be at Elliot in the fall as well. Are you going to admitted students day on the 17th? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#11303133) |
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Date: April 1st, 2009 11:35 AM Author: Balding Persian Rehab good luck at GW! i will be going to Admitted Student days at UCSD IRPS and UCLA (MPP) this weekend.
i found out yesterday from SIPA via Web site (no email yet)...waistlisted. I will not wait though. |
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Date: February 1st, 2009 12:29 PM Author: Amethyst Temple Still haven't heard back, despite being told a Feb 1st date. Not sure why.
Oh well. |
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Date: February 1st, 2009 2:32 PM Author: Irate shaky site headpube Subject: No worries Admissions commitee is probably really busy. This year has to be one of the most competitive since the job market is horrible.
I will be applying this fall for various schools but based on all of your comments, waiting for a simple "yes" or "no" seems to be a nerve racking experience. Gosh, my stomach is going to go crazy at this time next year. |
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Date: February 2nd, 2009 7:44 PM Author: floppy chestnut hell I also applied for fall 09 and have not been notified of a decision as of yet. I was never contacted for an interview (stats on the weaker side). Seems like they tried to get in a lot of interviews which is causing the delay in notifications. It makes me think that they are trying to interview all the people they will accept. still keeping fingers crossed though. good luck to everyone! (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10845277) |
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Date: February 2nd, 2009 9:15 PM Author: Amethyst Temple Did you apply for the Priority Deadline, though? If I had applied for the normal pool of applicants, I wouldn't be wondering why I hadn't heard back. But I did the December deadline.
I applied last year and wasn't scheduled to interview until March, so, don't give up hope.
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Date: February 2nd, 2009 10:56 PM Author: floppy chestnut hell Just checked, and yep, letter of denial. back to the drawing board. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10847052) |
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Date: February 3rd, 2009 1:50 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab you received an email already? anyone else? i am about to call and see what is going on. i heard i would definitely hear by jan 26th at the latest.
kaygirl, where else did you apply? |
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Date: February 3rd, 2009 2:03 PM Author: Amethyst Temple Still nothing for me. I'll let you call on my behalf. winkyface.
I'm anxious and confused, but I can wait. But let me know what they say!! |
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Date: February 3rd, 2009 2:07 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab I called and no one picked up. I will try again and let you know. I wonder how kaygirl found out already.
Kaygirl, you applied for IRPS priority deadline? |
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Date: February 3rd, 2009 3:07 PM Author: outnumbered poppy principal's office i found out last night as well....rejection. if you didnt hear back its probably better...they are prepping your letter of acceptance or deciding who is accepted and who is on the waitlist. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10850749) |
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Date: February 3rd, 2009 3:09 PM Author: floppy chestnut hell Vtima-yes I applied for the priority deadline, right on december 1st. I was notified by email and confirmed the rejection under my application page. I didn't apply anywhere else, it was the only fit for me. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10850758) |
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Date: February 3rd, 2009 10:15 PM Author: Irate shaky site headpube Subject: Kaygirl What is your next plan of action? I plan on applying to SAIS and UCSD this fall. Are you thinking about going back for a generic MBA in international business? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10853140) |
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Date: February 4th, 2009 8:18 PM Author: Amethyst Temple Subject: Going to grad school... Unofficial admit from IR/PS, told that I'd get the official one in the next week. Financial aid info by March.
Although I was expecting to be admitted (because I had been before), it's still a relief to see. |
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Date: February 5th, 2009 1:26 AM Author: Balding Persian Rehab I got in too. Email was from barbra Blake. How about you? I'm def in. U? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10861532) |
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Date: February 5th, 2009 11:16 PM Author: Irate shaky site headpube Subject: Congrats!! Good for you! Congrats to both of you! I hope things turn out well for you guys! (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10867635) |
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Date: February 6th, 2009 3:37 AM Author: floppy chestnut hell kmita-my next plan of action is to apply for other schools in the next cycle. I am kind of rethinking everything but i dont have the eavy work experience MBA schools are looking for. congrats to the both of you and good luck kmita for the next cycle. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10868836) |
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Date: February 9th, 2009 4:28 AM Author: Balding Persian Rehab Subject: hamfighter and kaygirl sorry to hear about the rejection. if you really like the IRPS program, i would ask the Admissions commitee for feedback: (from their FAQ) I wasn't admitted and would like some feedback. How can I obtain that?
We'll be happy to give you feedback on your application after the admissions process is over. Please submit your request via email. Please note that we will respond to such requests in June.
i applied to a few schools and have been really impressed with UCSD's admissions team. they are really attentive to prospective students, answer emails quickly, go to all the grad fairs, online chats, message boards, etc. normally it's so hard to get contact of any admissions staff. they even offer feedback if you were rejected.
good luck to all |
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Date: February 9th, 2009 8:40 AM Author: Amethyst Temple Speaking from experience, Fletcher is good about giving feedback to the rejects as well. Although, I question how useful the feedback actually is. It's not really personalized, and basically a rehash of the initial rejection letter. "You have a strong academic background and test scores, but the typical student has more work experience."
Maybe that's just the way it's been for me, but the email did read like it was automated.
But I agree with your impressions of the admissions team at UCSD. My phone interview with them was really good and the person doing the interview was very friendly. |
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Date: February 9th, 2009 5:40 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab Was your acceptance email from Barbra Blake or from the person you interviewed with? My status hasn't been updated on the website either. Has yours? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10888540) |
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Date: February 10th, 2009 11:00 AM Author: Amethyst Temple Yes, it was an email from Ms. Blake. The website has not been updated for me either, nor have I received a hard copy via snail mail.
No worries though. |
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Date: February 13th, 2009 12:13 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab So where else did you apply? Do you think you will go to UCSD? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10915105) |
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Date: February 13th, 2009 1:06 PM Author: Amethyst Temple I applied to GW, SAIS, Fletcher, and SIPA in additon to San Diego. I'm expecting rejections from all except GW, as that's the result I had last year and my resume hasn't improved all that much since.
If it's between UCSD and GW, then there's a strong chance I'll be in sunny San Diego come this time next year. It'll probably be based on how much/little funding I get. |
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Date: February 13th, 2009 1:42 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab I also applied to SIPA. I applied to NYU Wagner and UCLA. Expecting rejections from them as well---not sure why I applied..but you never know. UCSD is my first choice though. I was really intriqued by the IRPS program.
Where are you from anyways? I am coming from DC and will accept UCSD's offer.
Also, what will you concentrate in? I am going to choose b/w the Int'l Developmet and Nonprofit Management or Int'l Management career track and a regional specialization in SE Asia (language will probably be Bahasa Indonesia). |
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Date: February 13th, 2009 2:23 PM Author: Amethyst Temple I'm from the east coast as well, though not DC. Actually, being in DC is a reason for me to consider GW over UCSD. I just think the number of internships available to grad students in DC is a huge pro.
But the IR/PS program is certainly tempting. I'm looking to just do the typical IR concentration and specialize in East Asia, specifically China. I've got a decent handle on Mandarin already, but could certainly benefit from more class time. That's actually one of the things I like about the IR/PS program, is that the language portion is a big part of the curriculum.
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Date: February 24th, 2009 8:03 AM Author: Amethyst Temple Subject: Financial Aid info Got the acceptance via snail mail yesterday, without financial aid info. The letter says that I should receive it next week. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#10984521) |
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Date: February 24th, 2009 2:43 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab same here. Are you required to take a prep class? I have to take econ.
Are you going to admitted student day in April? |
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Date: February 24th, 2009 5:57 PM Author: Amethyst Temple I'm not required to take a class, no. But everyone is "recommended" to take them. I'm sure that's just so they can make more money, but it might be nice to be in San Diego a bit early and get back into academic mode.
I haven't quite made up my mind on admitted student day. It'll probably depend on what other schools I'm admitted to, if any. |
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Date: February 24th, 2009 10:44 PM Author: Crusty aqua personal credit line QM prep=useful. Econ prep=waste of time.
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Date: February 25th, 2009 10:20 AM Author: Balding Persian Rehab pmpfan: Are you making that a general comment or do you have experience with the prep class?
I am actually going to write student affairs to make sure that I am requied to take Econ and not QM. I was an econ minor and did well in undergrad--so I am a little confused here. |
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Date: February 27th, 2009 8:36 PM Author: Crusty aqua personal credit line I took both. QM prep is good in two ways. The first way is obvious: it gets you ready for QM 1. 2nd way is it is a good way to bond with your fellow classmates.
Econ, on the other hand, is rather boring and not very useful (especially if you've taken even intro-level econ before). Also isn't really a bonding experience because a) a lot fewer people take it b) you don't really work with others since the work is pretty easy.
Definitely write to student affairs if you were an econ minor. Maybe they made an error. If you took some stats classes and/or math beyond calc. you should be able to get out of QM prep as well.
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Date: February 28th, 2009 1:35 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab so you are in the IR/PS program at UCSD? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#11016159) |
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Date: March 3rd, 2009 7:50 PM Author: Crusty aqua personal credit line yep, 2nd year. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#11042030) |
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Date: March 7th, 2009 9:21 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab nice. What career track and regional specialization did you decide? Did you intern anywhere last summer? |
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Date: March 10th, 2009 1:02 AM Author: Crusty aqua personal credit line Management & Japan, although I am 99.9% certain now I will not have a career that has anything to do with Japan (but not because of IR/PS or anything like that).
As for an internship, I had a rather lame one here in Socal. In hindsight, I should have tried to find one abroad, even if it weren't related to my career interests. |
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Date: March 11th, 2009 10:20 AM Author: Balding Persian Rehab ok, thanks. I think I might take your advice and go for the Management track as opposed to the Int'l Development track. I dont have much of a background in business, which is why this track interests me--and I feel like I could have more options from it. I am choosing SE Asia as my region since I am closer to getting my fluency in Bahasa Indonesia. ALthough I am interested in Mandarin. I took a few courses already. |
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Date: March 7th, 2009 10:52 AM Author: Amethyst Temple Subject: funding I thought the info packet I got from UCSD last week said we'd be sent our financial aid info via email before the end of this week.
Anyone hear from them? |
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Date: March 7th, 2009 12:08 PM Author: Vermilion plaza Hello,I was recently admitted to IR/PS too. I received an email from Jason Packman in response to an email I had sent him about financial aid. He said those that received merit based aid in the first round of awards were already notified earlier this week. He said IR/PS will be sending out an email to everyone soon regarding additional rounds of aid and information about other fellowships and scholarships. I think USCD will be sending out separate financial aid info.
I also corresponded with the UCSD Financial Aid Office. If financial aid is neccessary for you like me, this also may be helpful. They will have a form on their website soon to appeal your EFC number if your income drops significantly due to being in school, rather than working full time. This will hopefully help you get a better financial aid package. Look for the Student Contribution appeal form. |
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Date: March 7th, 2009 9:21 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab are you going to accept? will you go to admitted students day? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#11079225) |
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Date: March 8th, 2009 9:38 PM Author: Vermilion plaza i haven't decided if I'm going to accept yet, but I am going to admitted students day. what about you? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#11086752) |
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Date: March 8th, 2009 10:19 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab Yes, I am going. I havent booked my ticket yet, but I will be there on Friday.
I also Got accepted into UCLA and will check out their campus that same weekend, but on Monday.
Where else did you apply? |
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Date: March 10th, 2009 12:51 AM Author: Vermilion plaza Congrats on acceptance to UCLA! Are you considering going?
IR/PS was the only IR grad program I applied to. I am interested in environmental policy and applied to other environmental management/policy-related programs in CA. I live and grew up in CA, want to eventually do something in Latin American environmental policy so IR/PS was a good fit. Just got to figure out the financal aid! |
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Date: March 10th, 2009 12:57 AM Author: Crusty aqua personal credit line As a CA resident, you might be eligible for a grant-in-aid. That's what I've had the past two years. Is about 10K, so I really only had to worry about living expenses. I think the most I've paid for tuition is a couple hundred bucks for a quarter.
I was not aware of this until the summer before I started IR/PS. IR/PS should really hype this up since it could be a great recruiting tool, for Californians at least.
Also, getting a readership or some type of TA position is a great way to fund your education. I was able to do that for 2 of my 6 quarters here.
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Date: March 10th, 2009 2:29 PM Author: Vermilion plaza Thanks for the info! I was not aware of grant-in aid, but since you mentioned it I found it on the Financial Aid website. You are automatically considered for grant-in-aid when you apply? You aren't notified about any financial aid awards until the summer though, right? Do you think that most students receive some kind of aid, fellowships or scholarships to assist in funding? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#11103398) |
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Date: March 10th, 2009 9:11 PM Author: Crusty aqua personal credit line Did you do the FAFSA? That's how you are considered for grant-in-aid. And yes, you aren't notified about financial aid awards until May or June, I forget which.
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Date: March 11th, 2009 11:09 AM Author: Vermilion plaza Yes, I completed the FAFSA last month. I wish they let us know about aid before we have to decide! I have a pretty good job right now, and am just anxious about not working (as much) during school. I really want to go to IR/PS though. You graduate this year right? Are you starting to make plans as to what to do after you graduate? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#11112003) |
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Date: March 11th, 2009 3:27 PM Author: Amethyst Temple I wish Admitted Students day wasn't on a Thursday and Friday. I don't know if I can get the time off work. It's not like I'm broadcasting to them that I'll be quitting to go to grad school soon.
I also wish they'd send out at least some information on funding. How can I make a decision without knowing anything about financial aid... |
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Date: March 11th, 2009 5:15 PM Author: Vermilion plaza I know how you feel, I'm taking Friday off but can't really afford to either.
The Financial Aid Office does not consider you for any awards until you have already accepted...It makes things really difficult. |
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Date: March 11th, 2009 9:59 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab BedCreme, You havent told your employers about grad school? How come (if you're sure you are going to go). I had to tell my supervisor b/c I had her write me a LOR.
You should come at least for 1 day---it could influence your decision.
I am just going on the Friday. |
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Date: March 12th, 2009 9:06 AM Author: Amethyst Temple Well, my current job blows and has nothing to do with IR, so I didn't get a rec from them. But I'm still counting on having an income from now until June-ish and don't want to risk them letting me go early.
I'll probably tell them after I hear back from everywhere. I agree with you though. I should probably go to at least one of the days, but I'm going to hold out until I hear back from everywhere. I think being admitted to one of the "name" schools would trump IR/PS even with it's beautiful San Diego weather.... |
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Date: March 12th, 2009 9:20 AM Author: Balding Persian Rehab You dont consider UCSD as one of the "name" schools? It is listed in the current Foreign Policy magazine as one of the top graduate schools for IR....above other 'name' schools like Stanford,etc. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#11121505) |
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Date: March 12th, 2009 10:41 AM Author: hyperventilating salmon scourge upon the earth set To quote myself, "It's ranked 11th, so it's in no way a bad program. It just very clearly is not SFS, SAIS, KSG, Fletcher, SIPA, or WWS. That is all." (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#11121716) |
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Date: March 12th, 2009 11:52 AM Author: Balding Persian Rehab right. it also depends on what you want to focus on. i am interested in the SE asia region and i like how IR/PS has a career track and regional specialization requirement. plus it is one, if not the only grad school program, that is focused on the pacific rim. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#11122086) |
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Date: March 12th, 2009 1:31 PM Author: Amethyst Temple And I'm a China-hand, so it makes sense for me as well. But Ms. Palin's quote sums it up. Or better yet, you could quote GradSchoolLOL who has me pegged when he said something like "people that went to a TTT undergrad school think that going to a prestigious grad school will make up for that fact." Something like that.
I'm friends with some alums of the program. They had an overall favorable opinion of it, but I did hear a few times that their view of the student body was mixed. Meaning, there were some remarkably bright and accomplished people in their class, but a lot of mediocrity as well. This is a somewhat anecdotal example, but when speaking with people from those top 5 schools, you hear the opposite being said. But that goes back to that idea of "wanting to be among the elite."
With that said, there is much about the program I do like. The pacific focus is good for my interests, and I like that the language portion is a big part of the curriculum. I wouldn't be unhappy at San Diego. Maybe just more happy somewhere else.
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Date: March 13th, 2009 1:19 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab what is TTT? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#11132593) |
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Date: March 13th, 2009 1:33 PM Author: Amethyst Temple It means a shitty college.
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=TTT
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Date: March 13th, 2009 11:36 PM Author: glittery black kitchen Subject: To BedCreme ni hao~~~I heard that u are good at Mandarin...would you like to share ur application experience with me...I am a sophomore student majoring in Diplomacy...you can e-mail me... msn: bbilosophy@hotmail.com |
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Date: March 14th, 2009 1:36 AM Author: Crusty aqua personal credit line in regards to the student body, it depends... Like my class, it is a bunch of competitive freaks. We get shit done. Set the school record for PMF finalists this year. Some overachieving mofos. The class behind us though? A bunch of slackers lol. Shitload of people are on academic probation apparently.
Anyway, I love my classmates for the most part. IR/PS has been good to me. Administration kinda blows (perhaps due to being a UC more than anything else) but faculty is generally good, and I've got what I wanted out of it.
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Date: March 14th, 2009 7:07 PM Author: Balding Persian Rehab pmpfan, any advice as to where to live? i think i've crossed off trying to live on campus. i have heard hillcrest is a nice area. any advice? |
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Date: June 4th, 2009 4:06 PM Author: Bisexual Hateful Casino Kitty Subject: UCSD grants The grant-in-aid you refer to is open to non-CA residents as well as CA residents.
I'll be attending IRPS in the fall. Yesterday I recieved my "preliminary award notification" and I'm getting 10K in UCSD grants. I called to ask about it and they said I will not know if am officially getting it until the official notifications go out and I'm pretty curious to see if that works out. If I get it both years, that will bring my loan amount to only 20K for the whole program. Which would be awesome! I disagree with the idea that SIPA/SIAS/SFS are in a different league than IRPS. Even if they are slightly better, I do not believe they are 80K better. |
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Date: January 15th, 2010 2:49 PM Author: Cruel-hearted narrow-minded clown Subject: Interviews Has anyone interviewed with UCSD? I applied priority decision and still haven't gotten an email to set one up. Should I be concerned? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#13815541) |
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Date: January 31st, 2010 7:25 PM Author: wonderful lemon theater Subject: interviews Guojiguanxi - I applied priority decision as well and haven't heard either. Have you received an email yet? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#13974172) |
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Date: February 1st, 2010 4:14 PM Author: Cruel-hearted narrow-minded clown I actually got an email back from UCSD which said:
"Interviews are requested by the committee for a select few students. I believe most are not interviewed and I do not think they have requested any interviews at this point. I understand it more as, if they have 10 spots remaining and 20 applicants who seem equally qualified, they will interview them to decide on the 10."
Definitely made me feel a lot better. |
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Date: February 1st, 2010 5:59 PM Author: wonderful lemon theater This makes me feel a lot better too! Thanks for forwarding this. Did you receive this email in response back to a question you asked them?
Are you an international student? If not, where in the U.S. are you based? |
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Date: February 1st, 2010 7:25 PM Author: Cruel-hearted narrow-minded clown Yeah I sent them an email because I was getting nervous haha. I actually live in Boston. I just got my acceptance email (literally an hour ago) so yours should be coming soon! Good luck dude! (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#13984220) |
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Date: February 1st, 2010 8:18 PM Author: wonderful lemon theater Congrats! You must be incredibly happy! I hope to hear good news soon.
Was your online application status updated as well on UCSD's website? |
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Date: February 1st, 2010 10:19 PM Author: Cruel-hearted narrow-minded clown Yes it was (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#13986300) |
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Date: February 2nd, 2010 1:22 AM Author: wonderful lemon theater What career track and region are you interested in? Did you receive funding? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#13988851) |
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Date: February 2nd, 2010 8:46 AM Author: Cruel-hearted narrow-minded clown International Politics and China. How bout you? As far as funding goes, the website says all of that information is available in March or April. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#13989754) |
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Date: February 2nd, 2010 10:39 AM Author: wonderful lemon theater International Development and Southeast Asia. Want to chat further over IM? My email is gmaps00 at gmail dot com on gchat. I'm also on Yahoo - dave2000_99us at yahoo dot com (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#13990035) |
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Date: February 3rd, 2010 8:22 PM Author: wonderful lemon theater Offhand do you know if anyone has received a rejection email yet? (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#14005604) |
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Date: August 30th, 2010 11:42 PM Author: passionate rose athletic conference hissy fit Subject: IRPS As to the discussion above, math is another major difference between IRPS and other IR programs. From multiple accounts, I think that IRPS should be classified as an international mba program and not an IR program. There is an extremely heavy quantitative component, beginning with prep courses and continuing on to QM I and II, econ-micro and macro, finance, and accounting. You don't study international relations until the second year, and even then only a few traditional courses are even offered. If you are comfortable with this interpretation of international relations this program is excellent. However, I would not enter the program with mediocre math skills. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#15927010) |
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Date: November 22nd, 2011 12:43 PM Author: Irate shaky site headpube Subject: IRPS I agree. I am not a graduate of IRPS but I took a careful look a its curriculum. It is a mix of MBA, Economics, and International Relations. The program is reputable but it may not be for everybody. If your regional focus is non-Asia, I would probably consider other programs. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#19420429) |
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Date: December 6th, 2011 2:08 AM Author: 180 spot jew also if your focus is seeking employment without wasting literally tens of thousands of dollars, i would probably consider other programs. thank you. (http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=913182&forum_id=3#19515614) |