February 11, 2011
The idea of graduate school applications on top of a full Fall semester is disheartening for many. Current Oklahoma Baptist University juniors are already stressing about the GRE, where to apply and how to go about funding further schooling after graduating with empty pocketbooks and a hearty collection of undergrad loans.
But senior English major Scott Risinger said the process does not have to be that difficult.
“I took the GRE once, passed, and sent in my application shortly after,” Risinger said.
He recently received news that he was partially accepted to the Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration Masters of Education program at Baylor.
The application process consisted of a GRE score, composing a cover letter, resume, official transcript, and three letters of recommendation from a professor, boss and administrator of student life activities.
Risinger applied only to Baylor.
After discussing schools with faculty members he respects, he arrived at the conclusion that it was the only program in which he desired to take part.
“It is really selective,” Risinger said.“They only admit about 25 a year, and probably hope only about 18 end up coming.”
The program is five semesters, including summers.
Tuition is waived, depending on where each student works.
Most administrative offices are options for employment. Free housing is also available for certain students.
“The only somewhat stressful part of the process was composing the cover letter,” Risinger said.
“It was my only opportunity to show my personality,” he said.
“I wanted them to know how much I want to take part in their program, but they cannot see that through a GRE score or transcript.”
After Baylor assessed Risinger’s application, they contacted him to set up a phone interview.
The call was an even better opportunity to showcase his interest in the school, as well as his enthusiasm toward school and learning.
“It was really relaxed,” he said. “I talked to four faculty members, and they asked questions about learning, which is something I’m very passionate about.”
After the interview, Risinger was granted partial acceptance into the program.
He will attend an orientation in February, and if he is fully accepted, he will begin pursuing his Masters in the fall.
“If I don’t get in, I’ll just reapply next year,” he said with optimism.“It’s the only place I really want to go.”
Risinger knows he will end up at Baylor eventually.
Once he completes his degree, he will be qualified to work in basically any administrative office, including residential life, etc.
“I’m excited to go to Baylor to see what a big school is like,” Risinger said.
“I am unsure of what size school I want to work in, so it will be a good trial run.”
