<p>Hello! After reading through prior threads, I've come to the conclusion that I'm not a competitive enough applicant to apply for a PhD program right now (3.48 gpa, Smith College.) Instead, I'd like to go ahead and apply for a master's program in which I can prove that I have what it takes to make it in a top-tier PhD program. That being said, my problem comes down to finances. I definitely can't pay the entire cost of a master's myself. I've seen it mentioned elsewhere that history M.A. programs with funding do indeed exist; if anyone could point me toward such institutions, I would be very grateful!</p>
<p>Thanks in advance,
Marilyn</p>
<p>I sent your a PM :)</p>
<p>MariLoves Books I thin that you are not going to apply to a Ph.D program that you should have more reasons besides not having a high gpa because there are alot more factors that can a great decider for your chances of getting in, particularly in history. I was leaning the same way and I talked to one of my professors who said that GRE writing samples, research, and publications are also very important. Actually, he said the most important thing of all (being all those other things are solid) was your fit with the program. So I know its not the info you sought but I think you should reconsider applying to a Ph.D program.</p>
<p>Thought I’d post a quick update (especially to TMP, who was very encouraging.)</p>
<p>After consulting with some of my professors from undergrad, I decided I’d try to go straight for PhD. It turns out that it really is about the complete package, in the humanities at least. I had really great LORs, a strong SOP, and scored in the 96th percentile in Verbal (don’t ask about Quant…) Ultimately I applied to 9 programs, both History and American Studies, and was admitted to 5. I’ll be going to Yale in the fall.</p>
<p>My advice to applicants is to really consult with those professors who know you best. My favorite professor and former adviser not only thought I was competitive enough to go straight to PhD, but she was there to give me advice in every part of the process - from helping me narrow down my list of programs to editing my SOP numerous times. </p>
<p>And please remember to have faith in yourself… it’s nerve-wrecking to see those ridiculous posts where people say “I have a 3.8 GPA, 700 Q, 700 V, am I competitive enough for grad school?” I know those conversations definitely made me feel that I wasn’t good enough, but as it turns out, I was! </p>
<p>Best of luck to all of you starting the process. Feel free to send me an e-mail if you want to ask any questions: missmariflores@********** :)</p>
<p>That was Gmail, btw</p>