Econ Masters Profile Evaluation- where should I apply?

[polykleitos]

Going to grad school in Econ was not what I planned on doing, but I've come to a rather late realization as a senior that it may be something I want to do. As it stands, my profile is definitely not competitive for phd programs, so I'm planning on doing a MA in Econ to improve my chances and figure out if I'm really cut out for an Econ phd. If not, I'm looking for a masters in econ to help me in applying for think tank/ policy-related research roles.

 

PROFILE:

International (non US/ Canadian)

Type of Undergrad: Top 25 liberal arts college

Undergrad GPA: 3.90/(major gpa: 3.96)

GRE: Have not taken but assume decent

Math Courses: Multivariable Calculus (A) Linear Algebra (A) Intro Stats (A) Intro Discrete Math (A) Intro Real Analysis (A-)

Econ Courses (undergrad-level): Intermediate Macro Theory (A) Intermediate Micro Theory (A-) Econometrics (A), all As except for 1 B+ in electives

Letters of Recommendation: Weak- barely knew my profs

1. Thesis adviser- fairly new and unknown AP but comes from top 10 econ program, should be ok.

2. Taking an elective with well-respected professor this semester, will work on getting good recs

Research Experience: None apart from the econ thesis which I am currently doing.

Teaching Experience: None.

Research Interests: Micro?

Concerns: No research experience to speak of, weak LORs, unknown GREs but I'm relatively good at taking standardized tests so assume they are going to be decent. Not in time to apply for masters programs this year so I'm planning on working 1 or 2 years before applying.

 

Any advice on which Masters programs I should apply for? I've heard LSE and UCL are very well-respected programs but the cost is prohibitive. How does my profile look for Canadian and European programs, especially for funding?