Phone Interview for Graduate School? Good? Bad? Opinions?

[ashbeeigh]

I applied for a virtual masters for the University of Southern California's Masters in Social Work program. It's a good program. So this isn't unexpected, but just wondering if anyone has an experience with it...

They sent me an e-mail asking to set up a phone interview. I know with regular jobs that's a first step, to get a look at some people they kind of are on the fence with but aren't quite sure about. Is that the same thing with Grad School? Or is it different like they really like me?

I'm not worried about the actual interview and if I get in I get in. If I don't I don't. No worries. I'lll suck it up and go to UTSA or Texas State when I can work my schedule around the classes. I applied for the program because it was virtual and it wasn't Phoenix or one of those other virtual Masters.

But, I just wanted to see if any of you wiser more experienced academics may have an idea as to where this is headed...do I need to prepare myself to be let down or should I prepare to shell out the big bucks for the program...if the interview goes well?

[gatoloco]

I applied for a virtual masters for the University of Southern California's Masters in Social Work program. It's a good program. So this isn't unexpected, but just wondering if anyone has an experience with it...

They sent me an e-mail asking to set up a phone interview. I know with regular jobs that's a first step, to get a look at some people they kind of are on the fence with but aren't quite sure about. Is that the same thing with Grad School? Or is it different like they really like me?

I'm not worried about the actual interview and if I get in I get in. If I don't I don't. No worries. I'lll suck it up and go to UTSA or Texas State when I can work my schedule around the classes. I applied for the program because it was virtual and it wasn't Phoenix or one of those other virtual Masters.

But, I just wanted to see if any of you wiser more experienced academics may have an idea as to where this is headed...do I need to prepare myself to be let down or should I prepare to shell out the big bucks for the program...if the interview goes well?

Is it really necessary to shell out the big bucks for the program if UTSA or Texas State has the education you desire and as you said, you can work your schedule around your classes?

[Drachen]

Is it really necessary to shell out the big bucks for the program if UTSA or Texas State has the education you desire and as you said, you can work your schedule around your classes?

My best friend is about to finish his social work degree at UTSA. All evening classes if I remember correctly. Just got an internship at the VA, the first UTSA student to do so. The trail has been blazed.

Oh and I don't think he has paid for one bit of his education, between scholarships and such.

However, to answer your question: it depends. Each person/institution/situation is different. Some schools require entrance interviews, some don't. Think of it this way, if they want and interview of ANY sort, that means that there has to be SOME interest.

[ashbeeigh]

Is it really necessary to shell out the big bucks for the program if UTSA or Texas State has the education you desire and as you said, you can work your schedule around your classes?

I had this conversation with my co-workers. However, UTSA and Texas State are not Top 10 programs. They do not have the nationwide network that this program has and will provide. In addition, they do have an MSW program, but they do not have the concentration I would like to get my MSW in, child welfare. Texas State does have a child welfare program, but it is arural child welfare program, but as my career moves me forward I see myself working in a metropolitan area. So, that's not as good of a fit as the USC program. UTSA's program is a general MSW. There is no concentration.

[Drachen]

I had this conversation with my co-workers. However, UTSA and Texas State are not Top 10 programs. They do not have the nationwide network that this program has and will provide. In addition, they do have an MSW program, but they do not have the concentration I would like to get my MSW in, child welfare. Texas State does have a child welfare program, but it is arural child welfare program, but as my career moves me forward I see myself working in a metropolitan area. So, that's not as good of a fit as the USC program. UTSA's program is a general MSW. There is no concentration.

Ok, this makes a little more sense than "if I don't get in, I will just go to these other places." It seems to me that if you see that much value in getting this concentration from this school, that one little denial wouldn't turn you to these schools that you feel are such a bad fit for you that you are willing to pay substantial sums of money more to not go to them.

If you get turned down, see if you can find out why, and fix that, then apply next semester.

[ashbeeigh]

Ok, this makes a little more sense than "if I don't get in, I will just go to these other places." It seems to me that if you see that much value in getting this concentration from this school, that one little denial wouldn't turn you to these schools that you feel are such a bad fit for you that you are willing to pay substantial sums of money more to not go to them.

If you get turned down, see if you can find out why, and fix that, then apply next semester.

It's an odd program, since it is online it has several start dates. This cycle starts in October and then another starts in November, January, April, etc. They have an MeD program run much in the same way. I think it's just the uniqueness of the program that I'm worried about.

And congratulations to your bff on getting that internship. That's awesome!

[MannyIsGod]

Good luck in the interview. USC is not a California state school is it?

[Drachen]

It's an odd program, since it is online it has several start dates. This cycle starts in October and then another starts in November, January, April, etc. They have an MeD program run much in the same way. I think it's just the uniqueness of the program that I'm worried about.

And congratulations to your bff on getting that internship. That's awesome!

We thought that it was pretty cool since it was a highly coveted internship (see: paid) with national competition.

Also, this "strange" cycle offers you more opportunities per year. If you don't get in, try again in a couple months. Find out why you got turned down. If USC has that much value, a few more months wait can't really hurt.

[DesignatedT]

IMO, Get ready to shell out the big bucks. They will take you if they are calling you unless you do something terribly wrong over the phone. My sister went through this.

[doobs]

Virtual student gets virtual interview. Seems fair.

[ashbeeigh]

Good luck in the interview. USC is not a California state school is it?

Nope. It's private. And you, of all people, wishing me luck? :wow

[doobs]

Good luck in the interview. USC is not a California state school is it?

University of Spoiled Children? Nah.

[tlongII]

USC is a private school and one of the better schools in the country. I'm sure the interview is to assess whether they feel you meet the criteria to make it into the school.

[MannyIsGod]

Nope. It's private. And you, of all people, wishing me luck? :wow

I'll still make fun of you but have I ever wished you ill?

[Jekka]

I didn't do a phone interview for grad school, but I did talk with them a lot informally before getting the offer. It may be that your recommendations weren't as specific as they typically like, or whatever, but if they're interviewing you it's because you're still being considered. If a school is no longer considering you for admission, they let you know pretty quickly most of the time.

Good luck with the interview, and with the MSW in general. I briefly considered an MSW when I was doing my AmeriCorps term, but I'm not made of the stuff that you need to be for a career in that area. You have stronger faith in humanity than I! :)

[ashbeeigh]

Have you taken into consideration how much the cost of USC is? Do you live in California or are you planning on relocating here?

If you decide to move here, you need to factor how much more expensive it is here. Also, unfortunately California has the second highest unemployment in the country right now too.

It's virtual. And with that being said, I did research the hell out of it before hand. It's heavily geared towards students outside of the state of California who would like to attend a Top 10 school, like theirs, but don't want to relocate. There will be a lot of webcam stuff and lots of online work. The organization they are working with are also working on making the right connections to make getting the internship possible no matter where you are located.

And no, I will not be relocating now or later.

[Das Texan]

Have you taken into consideration how much the cost of USC is? Do you live in California or are you planning on relocating here?

If you decide to move here, you need to factor how much more expensive it is here. Also, unfortunately California has the second highest unemployment in the country right now too.


i guess the virtual part went over your head right?

[ashbeeigh]

i guess the virtual part went over your head right?

For once I'm not the dumb one, right? :lol

[Das Texan]

oh and good luck!


a degree from USC beats anything from Phoenix 100 days out of 100 and from most other programs in the nation as well, virtual or not virtual.

The piece of paper will still say USC on it and that will still get you a long ways in the long run, especially when dealing with peoples and/or networking.

[Das Texan]

For once I'm not the dumb one, right? :lol


this time.
:toast

[ChuckD]

For once I'm not the dumb one, right? :lol

Well, I hate to point it out, but you're weirded out about a VIRTUAL Masters that uses PHONE interviews...

[baseline bum]

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Justplannasty23/7096660_l.jpg

[ashbeeigh]

Just had the interview. The admission's counselor ran about 30 minutes late (one of my biggest pet peeves in the world...ask Silver210_Black20 about that...). I sent him an e-mail 15 minutes after the initial interview was scheduled to ensure that it was going to happen. It was off putting to say the least.

He said he was sorry, but still...so he asked me a few questions...all of which he could find on my application, GPA, undergrad, why I wanted to be in social work (although I understand that is a good one to ask as you get to know the person better). He basically admitted that the phone interview was to assess my language comprehension to see if I was able to handle the program by the end of the short conversation. Umm? Okay. Anyway. Now I just wait for a few of my reccomendation to come in and for an answer. Why isn't there a nervous smiley?

[panic giraffe]

well that sounds kinda shady, but i mean its USfuckingC. think about where you want to get employed afterwards, and i think a degree from there will beat out the ones at texas state or utsa, not to mention it's a program you want.

[ploto]

He basically admitted that the phone interview was to assess my language comprehension to see if I was able to handle the program by the end of the short conversation.
That sounds a little bit odd.


The admission's counselor...
Was this just a general graduate admissions counselor or someone specifically for the SW department?

[ashbeeigh]

That sounds a little bit odd.


Was this just a general graduate admissions counselor or someone specifically for the SW department?


I know, I thought it was a bit odd, too. He was specific to this program as some other company does the interface (http://www.2tor.com)

[bigzak25]

What classes are different between an urban vs rural concentration of the degree you are seeking?

Also, I have a good friend that I think has her Masters from SWTS and works as a Social worker for South San ISD...I could hook you ladies up for a chat if you wish...just let me know if interested...Good Luck to you ashbeeigh.

[ashbeeigh]

My crazy admission rep called this morning. I got in. Now, to see how I am going to pay for it.

[Jekka]

Apply for as many scholarships as you can, even small ones (they add up!), and check with the school to see if they will do matching funds. UM turned a $10,000 scholarship for me into $20,000 by matching the whole thing.

[MannyIsGod]

Congrats!

[tlongII]

That's pretty big Ashbeeigh! Tough school to get into. I assume that since USC is private there is no difference between in state and out of state tuition, correct?

[ploto]

Congrats!

I would think that social work might be the type of program that offers grant money in exchange for promised service in some particular area in the future. I do not know if you want to go that route or not.

[CubanMustGo]

Besides scholarships there are usually need-based grants available - unless you're a richer.

Congratulations!

[Jekka]

Congrats!

I would think that social work might be the type of program that offers grant money in exchange for promised service in some particular area in the future. I do not know if you want to go that route or not.

The only organizations I know of that have funding allocated for something like that are federal. The armed forces can authorize up to $10,000/year payback on student loans if you fill a position they really need. Some other branches of gov't will do this, too, but not usually to the same extent. I know of civilians who work for the army and one at the GAO who are getting their loans repaid in exchange for gov't service. It's definitely worth looking into.

Something to keep in mind about grants - those are almost always subject to income taxes while scholarships are not.

[paparazzi]

My crazy admission rep called this morning. I got in. Now, to see how I am going to pay for it.

Looking at the big picture you are on your way girl!!

[CubanMustGo]

Something to keep in mind about grants - those are almost always subject to income taxes while scholarships are not.

According to the IRS, Pell grants and other need-based educational grants are treated as scholarships for terms of determining taxation; amounts spent on tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment (when required of all students) are generally non-taxable for degree candidates. Scholarship funds applied to room/board and travel are taxable. Ref IRS Publication 970 (http://www.irs.gov/publications/p970/ch01.html).

In any case, I'd rather spend the income tax due on a grant amount than have to come up with the entire amount of the grant myself. :toast

[Jekka]

According to the IRS, Pell grants and other need-based educational grants are treated as scholarships for terms of determining taxation; amounts spent on tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment (when required of all students) are generally non-taxable for degree candidates. Scholarship funds applied to room/board and travel are taxable. Ref IRS Publication 970 (http://www.irs.gov/publications/p970/ch01.html).

In any case, I'd rather spend the income tax due on a grant amount than have to come up with the entire amount of the grant myself. :toast

Pell grants are very different than most other grants. I would never turn down a grant either, but I know several people who had to pay taxes on grant monies because scholarships had covered their tuition, etc., and they were using grant money to pay living expenses.

Also, my AmeriCorps education award was taxed OUT THE ASS.

[ploto]

Pell grants are very different than most other grants. I would never turn down a grant either, but I know several people who had to pay taxes on grant monies because scholarships had covered their tuition, etc., and they were using grant money to pay living expenses.

If it is for living expenses, it is always taxed, but paying the tax is much better than paying the whole expense.

Also, even if your scholarship is paying all your fees, some of them are not allowable as expenses and that amount is also taxable.

Even Pell Grants are taxable if they are used for dorm room fees and food plans.

[ashbeeigh]

Well, whatever the tax obligations associated with the Pell grants are..it doesn't matter. Even with my lowly 19,500 last year (because i was unemployed from November until March) I still don't qualify for a Pell grant. My EFC was $5700 or something. :wow

[ashbeeigh]

Also, my AmeriCorps education award was taxed OUT THE ASS.


I loved my AmeriCorps experience. But holy shit. That was the biggest waste of $2,500 ever (strictly speaking in terms of a 1040).

[Jekka]

Well, whatever the tax obligations associated with the Pell grants are..it doesn't matter. Even with my lowly 19,500 last year (because i was unemployed from November until March) I still don't qualify for a Pell grant. My EFC was $5700 or something. :wow
You can only qualify for a Pell grant with your first bachelor's degree - anything after that is ineligible, no matter what your need is.

I loved my AmeriCorps experience. But holy shit. That was the biggest waste of $2,500 ever (strictly speaking in terms of a 1040).
I should find my letter from Rep. Charlie Gonzales for you. He basically said, "Well, since you were working, Congress as a whole thought that AmeriCorps members would WANT it to be considered wages, and I think you can agree that was the right decision." At which point I wanted to punch him.

[ashbeeigh]

You can only qualify for a Pell grant with your first bachelor's degree - anything after that is ineligible, no matter what your need is.

It was very vague on the FAFSA site but...there are a few Graduate students that can get it. Obviously none of the important ones (aka us)


With a few exceptions, Federal Pell Grants are available only to undergraduate students for a maximum lifetime limit of 18 semesters or its equivalent. Grants do not have to be repaid.
http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/what010.htm



I should find my letter from Rep. Charlie Gonzales for you. He basically said, "Well, since you were working, Congress as a whole thought that AmeriCorps members would WANT it to be considered wages, and I think you can agree that was the right decision." At which point I wanted to punch him.

Ugh. What a pain. I doubt he even had a clue what he was voting on. Some aid (probably a grad polisci policy grad student nonetheless) typed the letter and had him sign it before he stuck the stamp on it.

Whatever that may be, that was what...3 years ago for me and 4 for you? I wouldn't steer anyone away from AmeriCorps because the scholarship counts as income, it's just a pain for one year. I'd actually recommend it for anyone who just doesn't really have a clue what they want to be doing whether after college or after high school. The experience and connections made (at least for me) were unmeasurable (was that the right word?).

[TheSullyMonster]

Make absolutely certain that your diploma says 'USC' and not 'Online USC' or something similar, there are some schools that make a distinction. With a difference in the education and perception. But not price, of course.:lol

[Drachen]

Ashbeeigh, if I remember, I will talk to my friend who is about to finish up his MSW at UTSA. I understand that it is far less expensive, but he was able to get through school almost solely on grants (took out loans for about 1.5k for the entire program). I don't know the makeup of the grants, but if there are some nationally offered grants (not state), then perhaps that info could be useful to you. I am sure that he wouldn't mind giving the info since this is his last semester and you would not be competition for that money - LOL.

[ashbeeigh]

I am sure that he wouldn't mind giving the info since this is his last semester and you would not be competition for that money - LOL.


:lol

[Jekka]

Whatever that may be, that was what...3 years ago for me and 4 for you? I wouldn't steer anyone away from AmeriCorps because the scholarship counts as income, it's just a pain for one year. I'd actually recommend it for anyone who just doesn't really have a clue what they want to be doing whether after college or after high school. The experience and connections made (at least for me) were unmeasurable (was that the right word?).

Yeah, I finished up September of 2007 - I would definitely encourage people to do it, but you've got like 7 years to use that award and if possible you should really use it when you're IN school, not after it, so you can deduct tuition from your taxes. Because I was full-time, my award was $4,725, and after working for a year at less than $800/mo after taxes they were going to say that I owed more than $700. I'm hoping that other future AmeriCorps members can learn from that, because Obama has yet to do shit about it (even though it was something he campaigned on in SA).

[Drachen]

:lol

I thought you might like that. Just know that he was able to do this by carrying a 4.0 the whole way so far. He is also very very good at writing (one of his teachers early in his program told him that he had never in his 30 years of teaching at UT, UTSA and community colleges given a 100 on a paper, as he was handing him a paper with a 100 on top).

Not trying to scare you away, just telling you if you want the grant/scholarship route to work, it is obviously a difficult task.

However, you should be pretty good at writing, what with your hours upon hours spent each day for the better part of half a year writing cover letters.

(sorry, had to get a small shot in - LOL)

[JoeChalupa]

Congrats Ashbeeigh!

[ashbeeigh]

However, you should be pretty good at writing, what with your hours upon hours spent each day for the better part of half a year writing cover letters.

(sorry, had to get a small shot in - LOL)


Booger. It was 4 months.

[CubanMustGo]

Four months would be the "better part of half a year." :lol

[Drachen]

Four months would be the "better part of half a year." :lol


I am absolutely resisting the urge to turn this into a "bash" ashbeeigh thread after that comment. I really really congratulate you and will get you the info if I remember.

That being said, I am sure MiG will be in here shortly to carry the torch where I am resisting.