So, as summer is fast approaching, so are the deadlines...and the final decisions! And at this time I find myself once again still wondering, roaming between two main Grad choices: Comp lit MA/PhD or SLS (Second lang. Acquisition)/TESOL MA (and then potentially a PhD in SLS). Both options seem to appeal to me at different times of the day in different ways and I still struggle with making that choice. Now I am seriously thinking that maybe writing all of this down will help me, (and yes those other to be grad's that are struggling with multiple choices...I sooo feel your pain right about now!:)
So, this is what I'm facing:
1.) Comp Lit
PROS: I am really interested in different languages, have a newfound love for literature that is really strong at the moment and do really want to continue learning and keeping active all my foreign languages (Russian , English, French, Hungarian....). The fact that I posses the knowledge of these languages could definitely be a great plus in this field and in the comparative research. And as always I like the flexibility of such a degree, the freedom of doing a graduate degree but not sacrificing to just one language.
Now for the CONS: Now that I think of it there aren't really many cons, I mean sometimes I just wonder if I would be making the RIGHT decision since 5-6 years of my life would be devoted to this! Is literature for me just a new hobby or is it really something long lasting. I know I can develop into a good writer and researcher if that's what I'll wish for I just find myself constantly battling the thought that I have also really been interested in languages themselves (and although I would get to teach foreign languages, I wouldn't be really doing research in SLS).
2.) SLS/TESOL
PROS: I have always been really interested in foreign language study, language acquisition, and teaching and meeting foreign students and all the courses in a TESOL program greatly interest me.
CONS: I would potentially have to give up further substantial study of Foreign languages and have to concentrate on ESL (English language training), which is interesting too in its own way. It is possible also to find programs which let you combine SLS training in ESL and another language but these are rare to come by and would only be beneficial in further SLS research.
So, as you can see I have quiet a dilemma on my hands...I am even starting to consider now to apply to both kinds of programs if I won't make up my mind by September...because this uncertainty is seriously driving me crazy at the moment! Wherever I end up, I am certain I am going to love it and make the best of it!
Yours,
K
