Hello folks, I have a friend that is about to commit educational suicide, I was hoping that the fine members of this board will give me some pointers on how to talk to her without being pushy. Here is the situation: She currently works as a consultant for a respected firm, she is in her mid-late thirties. She recently applied, and was accepted to, Northwestern's MPPA program. However, she is unsure about the masters degree, in addition, her employer is picking up the tab. However, she wants to pursue a PhD program instead at either Capella or Walden University. She feels that an PhD will make her look better. I keep telling her, go to Northwestern, and then work on your PhD. However, she has her mind set on Capella, Walden and so forth. Now I'm not bashing these schools, however, I do think that a masters from Northwestern will trump an online PhD, just my .02. Do I keep telling her not to do it? Or do I just let it go? I told her to visit and peruse this board for an unbiased answer. Help!and Thanks to all:cool2:
I have found that attempting to coerce someone to do what you think is the right thing is a risky business, especially if you turn out to be wrong. The best thing you can do is offer your opinion and then let her make her own decision. She is obviously no dummy and you have to trust her to make the right choice. Capella is a great school and many have parleyed degrees from there into successful careers.
Sometimes a Doctorate degree from a decent academic institution would beat a Master degree in from a prestigious one. A Ph.D from Capella seems to be more appropriate for her because as a Consultant, credentials are more importation. I graduated from Georgetown University with a Master of Professional in Technology Manage with Information Assurance; however, I feel that I went to Georgetown University through the backdoor.
Further, obviously you are concerned about her future, so voice that to her. Ultimately there are an infinite number of factors that go in to a decision. We know what those factors are for us, others know what those factors are for them. We will never know all of the experiences, feelings, needs, desires, etc. that go in to a decision for another person. Your concern will be one factor for that person but we will never know what is "right" for them.
