I was overly ambitious this cycle - applying to only top 10-15 programs with stats that leave a lot to be desired. I was admitted to a top 10 program in my field (American politics) - but my offer letter made it clear that it would be without any financial aid. And that I would be able to try to "fund my remaining four years" through competitive opportunities (TA/RA/etc).
I am probably going to decline, but what would you do in my situation?
Decline, boost your GRE scores, do something between now and December that can convey you know what political science is, and what you'd be getting into. Perhaps a small regional conference, if you have something tenable and are still an undergrad.
Less helpful, obligatory PSR hate: GTFO and go to gradcafe?
If it is truly a top 10, you will be fine. Knew many people in this boat and they did TAships or RAships with no problem. By contrast I know some who got full fellowships and flamed out by the third year. Forcing you to secure funding is not the worst thing. It will make you get to know profs who are hiring RAs (making you more likely to coauthor pubs) and usually there are TA slots available somewhere. Sometimes is a different department but it doesn't matter. Declining a year and redoing the GREs is not a good idea esp if you've already gotten in to a top program.
You should accept the offer and pay for it. Think about the opportunity: working with some of the top scholars in American Politics. You will learn all the finer points of the American political system and you can start a career in academia, journalism, or practical politics with the skills you will acquire. No better investment in your future than to take out a loan to pay for a PhD program. Good luck!!
You'll get a TA-ship over the summer. This happens very often. Happened to me. The school hasn't been able to fully encumber funds for the Fall semester. When they do, later this Spring into early Summer, they'll need TA's and you'll get a nice little letter saying you've got funding.
So accept now. And wait it out. When it happens come back here and thank me for the good advice.
Sadie can we just pin a thread to the top of the board with basic advice for people?
"Always follow your university's policies to the letter if you don't have tenure yet."
"If you have serious aspirations of being at an R1, don't go to anything below the top 10."
"DO NOT DO A PHD IF YOU DON'T GET FULL FUNDING."
The fact the program did not give you full funding should signal to you that they do not view you as worth investing institutional resources in. You will thus be competing for limited resources at a disadvantage. You can win them over, but it will take work.
You should accept the offer and pay for it. Think about the opportunity: working with some of the top scholars in American Politics. You will learn all the finer points of the American political system and you can start a career in academia, journalism, or practical politics with the skills you will acquire. No better investment in your future than to take out a loan to pay for a PhD program. Good luck!!
This. Consider it an investment in your intellectual, and professional, development.
Bad sign that you are in american politics. That subfield has real problems attracting any good students these days, especially at top 10 schools (i.e. top schools excluding chymps). Many of these places are almost desperate for a couple of decent students who want to study American.
The answer to this is so obvious I wonder if it's a troll.
If there is no funding officer, DO. NOT. GO.
This is one of the first pieces of advice I give to any of my undergrads who ask me about grad school. If there is no funding offer, you should treat it as if it is not really an offer. I know the temptation is great - I know just how much the identity of my most talented students is often so wrapped up in academic success and getting into grad school - but you must be clear headed about this.
Improve your scores. Do something useful in the intervening period. Reapply next year. If the same thing happens, move on and do something else with your life.
There is absolutely no circumstance under which you should go without funding. Which top 10 even offers that? Maybe UCLA?
Best case scenario you eventually get funding, graduate in 5-6 years, then get a TT job. Now you're saddled with a ton of debt in a field where the best jobs still barely pay a living wage. You'll never pay off the debt.
DO NOT GO!!!
There is absolutely no circumstance under which you should go without funding. Which top 10 even offers that? Maybe UCLA?
Best case scenario you eventually get funding, graduate in 5-6 years, then get a TT job. Now you're saddled with a ton of debt in a field where the best jobs still barely pay a living wage. You'll never pay off the debt.
DO NOT GO!!!
Not UCLA.
Source: Insider.