What you really want to know
about the IIC program- Annetta Crecelius
Let me begin by saying that everyone’s experience is different and I am simply sharing some of my experiences in the hopes that you may learn from them.
Uh, Grad School is Expensive
First of all, as you are
probably already aware, grad school is expensive. Take the time to “Know Before You Owe,” compare the cost of tuition to the amount of
financial aid. And, check out the government’s tips on figuring out the best loan repayment
plan. Help you help yourself. Get started with the Free Application
for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the
Office of Financial Aid’s Scholarship Search, and by asking about IIC specific scholarships. Make an appointment
with the Office of Financial Aid to discuss your options.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
The IIC program sounds
perfect for you, right? Well, you don’t really know until you ask. Take
advantage of the opportunity to talk to current students. Ask around. Find out
as much as you can about the program before you get started. Not only will this
help you make your decision about applying, but it will also help you navigate
the program if you decide to pursue it.
It’s Flexible, Like a Gymnast
The beauty of the IIC program
is that you can tailor it to fit a wide variety of careers, including public
relations, digital media production and journalism, government diplomacy,
international education or study abroad, and the list goes on. One of the
unique aspects of the program is that it is split between the Department of Media, Film & Journalism Studies and the Josef Korbel School of International Studies. On the positive side, you get to decide which
classes you want to take. On the down side, it is difficult to get into Korbel
classes. You should be prepared with A, B and C options. But like any degree,
you get out of if what you put into it.
Well, That’s Not What I Expected
News flash, you’re going to
be writing a lot, so you might want to brush up on your skills. Be prepared for
a massive amount of reading. Also, in some classes, you’ll have projects that
you absolutely love and feel are completely relevant to real-world experience.
And, in some classes, you’ll feel like grad school is a big waste of time and
money. I think it really depends on your preference for theoretical or applied
study, as well as your professors. Ask around to see if anybody has taken a
class you’re interested in or which professors are their favorites. Lastly, class
schedules are not well-suited for those working full-time while taking classes.
Luckily, I have a very understanding boss that has allowed me to manipulate my
work schedule to fit my school schedule. Be prepared for some early morning and
afternoon classes or be prepared to have limited options for night classes.
The Best Part Is
If you are really interested
in a deeper awareness of all cultures, other nations, and even, a better
understanding of yourself, then this is the program for you. You will be
challenged to see the world through a different lens. You will be challenged to
question your own perceptions. Your classmates will become allies, friends and
colleagues. Together, you will share stories and experiences that will further
propel your education. You may be intimidated at first, but know that every
single person shares the same fear.
To be honest it is very difficult to have a set plan for your future, especially when it comes to grad school. There are many factors, as Annetta mentioned, that influence your choice of career, what university you choose to attend, and what classes to take. It has never made sense to me as to why higher education is so expensive in the United States; why can't it be like some European countries where it is free, or at least make it more affordable. HIgher education is very much a business in our country, and sadly making sure everyone can obtain it is not a priority. It is a sad contradiction of requiring the population to obtain higher education to get a good job, but not offering an option that is easy and affordable to receive this education. Students have to balance social life, school, and work, which becomes very difficult at times. But the thing that you should keep in mind is what you are passionate about, what it is you truly want to make out of life. You have to make sure you study something you truly want to dedicate your life to, otherwise it just seems like a waste of time and money. It is good to be aware of all these factors when it comes to higher education, and to always find a way to make things happen even if they seem impossible and unattainable.
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