Taking a chance on one school for MS thesis?

In summary, the company has an opening for an MS candidate, but the candidate may have to take a leave of absence from work to do their thesis. The company may be able to pay the candidate in order to do a thesis even if they have to take a leave of absence.
  • #1
creepypasta13
375
0
So a few months ago I got 2 job offers, so I accepted one and turned down the other. However, my employment then ended unexpectedly in a couple months. A few days ago I called the company whose offer I had rejected to see if they had any current openings. To my surprise, they didn't seem angry at me, and yesterday, they told me that they should have an opening for me but will let me know in 2 weeks, after the hiring manager returns from a business trip. Since getting an MS is a job requirement, I have to eventually get it while working as well.

Last year when I applied for grad schools in ME/AE, I only applied to UCLA since I missed the deadlines for other schools. This company plans on having me work part-time so that I have more time for school. The main problem is that I want to do the MS with thesis, but the only school nearby that offers that is UCLA. My main area of interest is CFD, but UCLA only has 3 profs in that area, and one of them doesn't take MS students, leaving 2 available. Those other 2 sometimes take MS students, but won't anytime soon (at least for an RA-ship. Maybe I should ask if they will take me on for a thesis, but un-funded?). I really don't want to just take the coursework-only MS since I may decide to go for the phD

I heard one option would be to take a leave of absence from work to do my thesis. But since only 2 profs do research I'm interested in, is taking the job and going to UCLA worth gambling on? Or should I turn down this job again, so I can find another MS program (I was considering applying to grad schools for spring and fall '11 programs before I heard this company had openings) where I can more easily find research in my area of interest? The hiring manager told me they might also have internships, so that might be a better option..
 
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  • #2
Talk to this employer about wanting to do a thesis. Assuming they do CFD work, you may be able to work out a way to do a thesis while working with the support of the company.
 
  • #3
boneh3ad said:
Talk to this employer about wanting to do a thesis. Assuming they do CFD work, you may be able to work out a way to do a thesis while working with the support of the company.

I just called but no answer, so he may have already left. The company does some CFD work, but I don't think so in the hiring manager's dept, which is flight software. If so, you think the company can pay me in order to do a thesis even if I have to take a leave of absence for it? If so, I just got to find a prof at UCLA that will advise my thesis but not have to provide me an RA-ship, right?
 

1. What factors should I consider when deciding on one school for my MS thesis?

When considering taking a chance on one school for your MS thesis, it is important to evaluate the school's faculty, resources, and overall research opportunities. Additionally, consider the location, funding opportunities, and potential for collaboration with other institutions.

2. How can I ensure that I am making the right decision by choosing one school for my MS thesis?

To ensure that you are making the right decision, it is important to thoroughly research the school and its MS thesis program. Connect with current students and faculty, read reviews and rankings, and visit the campus if possible. It is also helpful to have a backup plan in case your chosen school does not work out.

3. Will choosing one school for my MS thesis limit my future career opportunities?

Choosing one school for your MS thesis will not limit your future career opportunities. What matters most is the quality of your research and the skills and knowledge you acquire during your program. Employers will value your experience and achievements rather than the specific school you attended.

4. Is it risky to take a chance on one school for my MS thesis?

There is always some level of risk involved in any decision, including choosing one school for your MS thesis. However, if you have thoroughly researched and considered your options, and have a backup plan in place, the risk can be minimized. Remember that taking a chance can also lead to great opportunities and growth.

5. Can I switch to a different school for my MS thesis if I am not satisfied with my chosen school?

In some cases, it may be possible to switch to a different school for your MS thesis if you are not satisfied with your chosen school. However, this will depend on the policies of your program and the availability of openings at other schools. It is important to discuss your options with your advisor and program coordinator before making any decisions.

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