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Applying for Grad School & Prepping for GRE+AWA
#1
I'm conferring with the BA Liberal Studies from TESU in September, and I want to try for graduate school. My big issue right now is since leaving the other line of work in 2012 I've become a bit of a hermit, and the people I worked with in the regular world before that are all now retired and no longer in contact. I need to rebuild my social network and will be struggling to even find people to write recommendation letters.

The online coursework has been nice because I moved around so much since I first started college over a decade and a half ago. I feel like even though the online coursework is flexible enough for me, I could see major advantages to going to a brick and mortar school to rebuild my network... which I really need to do. I seem to need to surround myself with high energy people, because I need to take advantage of my energy when I'm inspired, and without having a really supportive network I get frustrated with the lack of enthusiasm around me an fizzle out. I think that had a lot to do with some of my low grades in undergraduate too, because when I went back to TESU even with all the stress I still did better. I'm also at a point where I realize the 5yr relationship I'm in is never going to work... so it's time for me to figure out what to do with my life. I always wanted to have a family (I'm in my mid 30's), but time is slipping by quickly and if I can't be successful in that arena I feel like I better at least get moving towards doing something that I can look back on and see the value in. I've already been through the period of crazy partying and doing everything that makes for good stories when a person is old. Now I want to work more on valued work with a legacy. I'd love to get a combination degree focusing on social entrepreneurship and social work, but I know doing both would probably ridiculously long... and I doubt I could hang. I feel like I could help more people by building businesses, but I need the foundation knowledge and a much better network.

Here are the potential options I am considering:

1. Harvard Business School - MBA Social Enterprise - $250 application fee
I know, crazy, right? I need a really strong network though, and I know I could build that there. I also think that while my grades aren't amazing, my story and background of what I've been through is pretty amazing. Granted, I'm no Liz Murray... but my story is part way between her's and Tatum Channing's (Magic Mike) - who also was accepted to a Harvard program. I've been studying the schools, how much financial aid they offer, the number of millionaires/billionaires from each school (particularly self-made women) etc. Harvard constantly comes out on top, and many of their graduates are very inspiring.
Plus: I think I would be more likely to establish a solid network there & I value history, I've never lived in that part of the country which could be fun, it would make me a lot more employable, and they have accepted some students with very diverse backgrounds including pro athletes like Maria Sharapova who admitted to making a mistake that disqualified her from pro-tennis for two years. In other words people can do things that aren't socially acceptable, own their choices/mistakes, and still get in.
Minuses: I hate cold weather & snow but I know I can deal with it.
I really want to go for this, but I'm also sort of nervous about my chances because it's not like I'm rolling in money at all - $250 is a lot to me these days... which is sad considering how I didn't feel like that at all prior to the recession and my injury. What do you all think? Would it just be a waste of money?

2. Harvard Extension - Online Master of Liberal Arts Management - MBA Comparison $50 application fee
The plus side is I could live literally anywhere with an internet connection, which is very appealing. I've been really wanting to learn to sail so I could travel. The down side is once again I'm not so sure that this would be as good for re-building my network. I could also start classes without the recommendation letters or even applying, since they require students to take 3 courses maintaining a 3.0 prior to applying. If I do this though my understanding is I'd be locked in, so I couldn't later decide I want to go to Harvard Business School.

3. UPenn Wharton - MBA Entrepreneurial Management $265 application fee
The plus side of the program is I already taken their coursera program on social entrepreneurship, completed with honors, and felt like I learned a lot... so I'm pretty confident in the program. The instructors seem really amazing, but when I compare the alumni of Harvard versus Wharton... I feel like I would fit better with the alumni at Harvard. Wharton seems a lot more straight business to me, whereas Harvard seems to focus more on helping people. I also think it would make finding employment much easier.
Minus: Super competitive, which based on some of the alumni I really worry about the ethics among the students and how that would play into the competitiveness.

4. U. of S. California Marshall - Master of Science in Social Entrepreneurship - $150 application fee
Plus sides: shorter (1 year) program, I really like what it looks like the format is, and it's in Los Angeles where I know a lot of people from my previous line of work, and have some family - but we never talk. Lots of opportunities for work though. They also have an MSW program that doesn't require the GRE. As a matter of fact I don't think either of their programs I am looking at require the GMAT or GRE.
Minuses: Relatively new program, admittedly Marshall doesn't have as high of a reputation as HBS or Wharton, it's in L.A. and I'd despise the traffic but love the weather.

I'm open to studying other places, and I haven't fully ruled out still just doing WGU or something else that can be done fast and then a certificate in social entrepreneurship. I'm just worried going that option though that I won't really be re-building a social network that I know I'll need.

If I go the other direction for an MSW focusing on social entrepreneurship the following could be options:

1. Brown - MSW Social Entrepreneurship

2. Boston College MSW Macro: Social Innovation + Leadership

So right now I have about $600 that I can use to pay for the GRE and apply to colleges. If you all were in my shoes, what would you do? I know social work won't pay well, which is part of my hesitation with it, but it would benefit me in terms of employ-ability for currently operating organizations I might be interested in working for.

Also, the Harvard essay is super open-ended, and I'm thinking how to answer:

[INDENT]"As we review your application, what more would you like us to know as we consider your candidacy for the Harvard Business School MBA program?"[/INDENT]

I'm debating how to go about discussing my background. It's obviously a touchy subject ethically speaking, and many people won't be comfortable with it, but those experiences made me who I am today. I don't want to come across as someone who became a victim of various issues due to making half-hazard decisions. I did think things through, and while maybe the decisions weren't the best they were far from the worst. I don't want to come across as gloating about the duration or success I did achieve within the field either. I just don't feel like people understand it, like it's not all terrible but it's not always glamorous either. I met a lot of people from very opposite walks of life, and that gives me a very different perspective on the world. I feel like I'm obligated to discuss my past, because if I don't it's like the big elephant in the room that someone is bound to find out about especially with the advent of the internet, and all the photos/videos. I prefer to just deal with the issues head on. Plus, I'm not really a risk taker so I don't want to take the chance that I'd get into a good school, then have my background come up and suddenly be dismissed. Thoughts?

Also, I am beyond horrible at math (I can't remember even high school math) and really need to brush up on my English composition. How long should I plan to study for the GRE + AWA? I feel like I should go ahead and register now to get the money out of my account before I'm tempted to spend it on something else, and so I feel committed. Any really great suggestions for preparing? I'm leaning towards GRE because they apparently don't get reported into the average student gmat scores when colleges are ranked, and since I'm pretty sure my scores won't be stellar I figured the schools might be more willing to over-look that if they feel like my scores won't lower their accepted gmat average.

Any other things I should be aware of or programs I should consider? I'm having one of those feelings like the next year could be a really pivotal time in my life, and while I am loving the environment since moving to the Pacific NW/South Pudget Sound, I'm also very willing to relocate. I also need to start really putting effort into applying for scholarships and fellowships, because right now I know won't be eligible for loans.
MBA, Walden University (In progress - 60% done)
2016 TESU, BA-LIBST, Emphases in Multimedia Comm./Human & Social Services
TESU TECEPS: Abnormal Psych PSY-350, Psych of Women PSY-270, Sales Mgmnt MAR-322, Advertising MAR-323, Marketing COM-210; Capstone w/ Ciacco
Other Sources: CLEP, Art Portfolio, 3 Comm. Colleges, 2 Art Colleges,  FEMA, AICPCU Ethics
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#2
To my way of thinking, it's WAY too early to start limiting your choices or give up on your dreams. I'd rather waste $250 than always wonder if I could have done it. The time to take off the rose-colored glasses will be when you have a pile of acceptances and it's time to make a decision. You can also discuss this with an admissions adviser there. They might be able to give you better insight into your chances.

As far as the test goes, I think you're overthinking it. Just take the one that all the schools you want to apply to will accept.

As far as the essay, your story is your story. What little you've shared here is inspirational to me. To overcome adversity and be on your way to fulfilling your dreams is something to be very proud of...it shows character. Of course, you don't have to dwell on unflattering details, instead concentrate on your growth, your perseverance and your achievements.
NanoDegree: Intro to Self-Driving Cars (2019)
Coursera: Stanford Machine Learning (2019)
TESU: BA in Comp Sci (2016)
TECEP:Env Ethics (2015); TESU PLA:Software Eng, Computer Arch, C++, Advanced C++, Data Struct (2015); TESU Courses:Capstone, Database Mngmnt Sys, Op Sys, Artificial Intel, Discrete Math, Intro to Portfolio Dev, Intro PLA (2014-16); DSST:Anthro, Pers Fin, Astronomy (2014); CLEP:Intro to Soc (2014); Saylor.org:Intro to Computers (2014); CC: 69 units (1980-88)

PLA Tips Thread - TESU: What is in a Portfolio?
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#3
Sweetsecret, are you wanting to work for yourself or be an employee? I ask because you mentioned that social work doesn't pay well. It's definitely an underpaid field but also a flexible one that can take you lots of places. Second, it would be great if you could find a program that doesn't require the GRE you can get started faster since you wouldn't have to study for it. And you could possibly come to graduation Wink. But if the program you really want requires it, don't let that be the thing that stops you. Same with the steep application fee.

Regarding your background and essay writing, I recommend joining and becoming active in an organization or two that could help you get established in the field and make some contacts who could possibly serve as references. I also recommend learning how to control your own narrative. People can look into you, Google, etc. But make sure they see the story you want them to see when they do that. Meetup groups are good networking also.

BTW I'm a fan of Brene Brown who's a great public speaker/professor/writer/self development specialist and she's also a social worker.
Associate in Arts - Thomas Edison State University
Bachelor of Arts in Humanities - Thomas Edison State University
pursuing Master's degree, Applied Linguistics - Universidad Antonio de Nebrija

*credit sources: Patten University, Straighterline, Learning Counts, The Institutes, Torah College Credits, Kaplan Open College, UMUC, Thomas Edison State University (guided study liberal arts capstone)
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#4
Harvard Extension has really relaxed their residency requirement, but beware there is still a residency requirement. I doubt it's a deal breaker, but there will be time and costs to that.

Should you get into Harvard for the MBA I will buy you a sweater...turning down a Harvard MBA because Cambridge is cold would be genuinely nutty. Smile

There are lots of stellar schools that cost a lot less than most of the ones on your short list. Keep researching. A strong regional or State School will provide plenty of networking, doesn't have to be Wharton or Harvard for you to find fulfillment and happiness.
MBA, Western Governors University February 2014
BS Charter Oak State College November 2011
AS in EMS August 2010

I'm always happy to complete the free application waiver for those applying to WGU (I get a free gift from WGU for this).  Just PM me your first/last name and a valid email so I can complete their form.

Thread; COSC AS using FEMA http://www.degreeforum.net/excelsior-tho...total.html
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#5
The Idealist Job Fair might have some useful info for you, if you are near one this fall:
Idealist: Idealist Grad Fairs - idealist.org
BA, MA, EdS, MMT, etc.
83 hours of ACE-worthy credits
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#6
Right out of the master's program I'll probably work for another social enterprise or non-profit while I build a stronger professional network and get more hands on experience. Within a few years after that I'd like to start a social enterprise focusing on helping people who have experience trafficking, poverty, & others who have a hard time finding well paid stable work. Eventually, when I am about 60, I'd like to run a little cruise line as a social enterprise helping people form families - people that never met a good partner, never had children, etc.

The problem with my background is that the facial recognition is going to become a big problem in a few years. Right now there are too many photos, videos, audio interviews, etc of me from my previous work online. I could spend months issuing DCMA take down notices, but it would barely make a dent, and many would just ignore the notices because they copied the content and are hosting outside of the US... so they can ignore them. Basically it's like I can't pretend my past doesn't exist, but I can control how I want to talk about it. I just want to make sure that I phrase everything correctly so it can't be spun in some manner that I hadn't thought of.

LadyLearner, I am also a fan of Brenà Brown! The way I was thinking about sort of phrasing my essay is around trust, stating my background upfront, and just being outright in the fact that by being honest I am showing vulnerability but also making a daring move in order to build trust with the school - all based on her work.

Rebel100, I wouldn't pass up Harvard for the cold weather, but if I get in I'll take you up on the sweater! :-)

KayV, thanks for that link, there actually is one near me coming up! On Monday I am going to check out something called the Fortà Forum in Seattle. Its like an informational session for women looking to pursue an MBA. I was hoping to find another lady to go with, but haven't had any luck so far on that. I'm excited though because there will be representatives there from the schools I'm heavily considering.

I think I'm just going to bite the bullet and apply to Harvard. The worst they can say is "no", and it will be $250 down the drain. While that wouldn't be fun given my financial situation, I've had so many other things far worse happen that getting a "no" from Harvard wouldn't even be on my list of terrible things experienced. Besides, I know they are taking some people who have been on pretty incredible journey's in life, and if my $250 helps someone else, I can still find happiness in that.
MBA, Walden University (In progress - 60% done)
2016 TESU, BA-LIBST, Emphases in Multimedia Comm./Human & Social Services
TESU TECEPS: Abnormal Psych PSY-350, Psych of Women PSY-270, Sales Mgmnt MAR-322, Advertising MAR-323, Marketing COM-210; Capstone w/ Ciacco
Other Sources: CLEP, Art Portfolio, 3 Comm. Colleges, 2 Art Colleges,  FEMA, AICPCU Ethics
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#7
Dragging this thread back up because I feel lost. What's the opinion on Magoosh for studying for the GRE? Or what should I use? I am beyond terrible at math, so I need time to study for it. If I shoot for Harvard's Jan 4 application deadline for MBAs then I think I need to take the GRE in November, right? I believe the GRE has a 30-day turn around to send to the college, so hopefully if I take it the 3rd week of November I'll be safe. Or should I take it sooner incase I need a second opportunity before the application deadline?
MBA, Walden University (In progress - 60% done)
2016 TESU, BA-LIBST, Emphases in Multimedia Comm./Human & Social Services
TESU TECEPS: Abnormal Psych PSY-350, Psych of Women PSY-270, Sales Mgmnt MAR-322, Advertising MAR-323, Marketing COM-210; Capstone w/ Ciacco
Other Sources: CLEP, Art Portfolio, 3 Comm. Colleges, 2 Art Colleges,  FEMA, AICPCU Ethics
Reply
#8
SweetSecret Wrote:Dragging this thread back up because I feel lost. What's the opinion on Magoosh for studying for the GRE? Or what should I use? I am beyond terrible at math, so I need time to study for it. If I shoot for Harvard's Jan 4 application deadline for MBAs then I think I need to take the GRE in November, right? I believe the GRE has a 30-day turn around to send to the college, so hopefully if I take it the 3rd week of November I'll be safe. Or should I take it sooner incase I need a second opportunity before the application deadline?

I'm familiar with Magoosh but can't really comment on using that site for GRE math prep. I did want to throw Aleks' name in the mix. Perhaps someone else here can chime in regarding using Aleks for this purpose.
Associate in Arts - Thomas Edison State University
Bachelor of Arts in Humanities - Thomas Edison State University
pursuing Master's degree, Applied Linguistics - Universidad Antonio de Nebrija

*credit sources: Patten University, Straighterline, Learning Counts, The Institutes, Torah College Credits, Kaplan Open College, UMUC, Thomas Edison State University (guided study liberal arts capstone)
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