What if you don't have major research as an undergrad?

[kahluagal]

I have a bunch of questions, but a major one is about the lack of research experience in my background

Comments

[girlracer]

if you want to do usability design/testing and the MFA route doesn't work, consider applying to library school, it's ridiculously easy to get into a program.

[kahluagal]

Hmm, good to know. THe problem is I'm a UX designer who's a generalist - so I like the usability testing but I"m also interested in UI design and a bunch of other things. I've thought about library school, but I'd like a program that's both analytical and creative, and I haven't seen a library school that does a good blending of both.

[tisiphone]

It really doesn't matter, TBH. Grad school is when you're supposed to do research, so some undergrads have done it but plenty of them don't. This might be a problem if you were applying for a really competitive science program, but it doesn't sound like you are. I would focus on your relevant work experience and whatever else you have to offer, instead.

[kahluagal]

Thank you - I feel a little bit better, and yes, it's not a competitive science based program. It's an extremely competitive art school, so I'm not sure if my portfolio of work is good enough, but it is a portfolio of different kinds of work experiences (products), so I'm hoping that will be good. I do wish there was a way to share the papers I've written, but I guess if they're not published it may look a little funny.

[tisiphone]

Not necessarily. Do they ask for a writing sample? If so you could submit that.

[kahluagal]

I wish they had a place for a writing sample! It's just the Statement of Purpose (500-750 words), which I'm refining and think will be good. I have a portfolio to show them, but can't really sneak in the papers there. I guess I can bring it if I get an interview. I also have a blog where I've written posts related to my field - since I'll be submitting my Web site, hopefully they'd see the blog as well.