Hi guys

I successfully finished my MSc in applied parasitology in 2006 and went straight into full-time employment in an unrelated field (partly due to having to pay off the loan I took out to fund the course). I've always wanted to study at a PhD level, now even more so, however, due to being out of academia for so long and having no practical experience to speak of, I feel that an application would fall flat on it's face! I do keep up to date with the currently literature however, I feel that my lack of experience would be a barrier to a successful application.

I'm just wondering if you've any general tips on how to make a potential application stronger, in particular for funded studentships. Do you know how admissions departments view applicants who've been out of education for a number of years?

Many thanks

J

======= Date Modified 20 17 2009 20:17:56 =======
Hi guys.

I applied for a Phd studentship in Parasitology and unfortunately my application was unsuccessful. I was accepted last year and was about to take the place when sudden personal circumstances forced me to forfeit. The supervisor in question contacted me and said please apply again in the future. I did so for the same project but unfortunately I was unsuccessful First PhD application..Do I continuing applying?.

I was later informed that far more people applied for this studentship this time round. I know that alot more graduates are deciding to stay in higher education because of the current financial climate.

I guess this has knocked my confidence a little. I am still really interested in doing a Phd but I am slightly concerned that my undergrad degree will be a barrier (I received a 2:ii but have good Masters degree (65%)) especially as more people continue to enter postgraduate education.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks

J

Hi

I hope everyone is having a great Christmas!

I have a small dilemma..I have seen two projects that I'm really interested in and I'm considering applying for..great I hear you say. The problem is that both projects are within the same department and are supervised by two different people. Would it be a great no-no to apply for both projects (as I am by no means guaranteed either positions)? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks.

J