kelseydbh

Thank you for your response! I am actually not asking how hard one should work (maybe my phrasing was not the best), because I plan to work my hardest, no matter where I go. Simultaneously, I think that it is a legitimate goal to attend a rigorous, challenging program, that is simultaneously not a punitive way to spend your time (which admittedly is a fine line). Some of what I read about these programs, which may be biased or non-representative, indicated that individuals had experienced the latter. To create a more balanced picture, I am hoping to gain some insight into others' experiences in or with these programs. Moreover, I am looking for some ways to differentiate them, as in much of the advice I receive they seem to come in at a tie.

Hello, I would really appreciate your insight on the following! Programs: I have been accepted into: MSc Economics at UCL and MSc Economics at BGSE. I am still waiting to hear about my application to the MPhil in Economics at Oxford. (I think it is unlikely I get in, given that I was rejected from LSE and Cambridge, but I guess we’ll see!) In either program (except of course Oxford, where it is not offered) I plan to switch into the Economic Policy Program because I want a more applied program. My interests: I am really interested in applied micro; especially development, behavioral econ, and health. I have a particular interest in these areas as they apply to women. About me: I have a BA in Economics from a top 10 liberal arts college in the United States. After I graduated, the plan was to work as an RA in the US for a year, and then for a year in the field, to gain research experience and really be sure that I wanted to pursue a PhD in Econ after those two years. Unfortunately, I was unable to get an Economic RA position (at places like JPAL, IPA, Urban Institute, AIR, etc, but also at smaller places) but have spent this year as a program assistant at a university research center and working as an unpaid RA for an Econ professor at that university (I have also taken multivariable calc, which I have done well in, but not totally enjoyed). This year has helped me learn that while I might still want to pursue another degree, it will probably not be a PhD in Econ. I want to take a little bit more time to think about that decision. Goals: In the future, I would like to work at an org/think tank that does research, but also more applied work in development or issues of economic justice domestically. I would still like to spend some time working in the field in either a research or more applied capacity. I applied to masters programs because I thought a master’s degree would help me towards this goal. In the short run, however, I would also like to enjoy my life. This year has not been one I have enjoyed (getting uniformly rejected from jobs will do that to you) so happiness is a slightly larger priority. Some of what I have read online has indicated that the programs at UCL and BGSE are seriously killer (read: miserable) years. However, I know there is probably a significant bias (I might not feel compelled write a blog post about my just-fine/not horrible experience at either school). Don’t get me wrong, I really enjoy challenging work—but I don’t want to feel like I am being put through a meat grinder. I would like learn more about these programs to help inform my decision. Is one clearly superior (for my interests, in terms of options afterwards, or quality of training)? How might they differ in experience? Have you, or anyone you know attended? I would love to hear any and all information that might help to inform my decision (or any other career advice you want to give!). Thank you for your help!!