A second chance - Should I accept even if it means leaving my current Master program?

As many of you know, I was offered a position for a teaching fellowship/grad program in Washington DC about a year ago. One of the requirements was passing the state exams to earn a licensure to teach. I couldn’t pass them in May, they rescinded my offer and I decided to stay in my local area to pursue a master’s degree.

Just this past weekend, I received an email from admissions offering me a second chance to study with them and accept the offer to join their 2016 cohort.

The program pays about 75% of my tuition and by the time I finish the program I will already be a full time salaried teacher with three years of teaching under my belt (the first year is all student teaching). Compared to my program now, there are more networking opportunities, guaranteed post-grad teacher position and involved community support throughout the entire four-year program.

My question is whether or not I should take this chance and accept the offer even if it means leaving my current program? It might not come around again if I don't accept. What do you think?

With the cost of tuition I'd have to accept it. Of course it would also depend on how you feel about moving. It sounds like it would be a good opportunity. My stepdaughter is doing a similar thing with her doctorate. She had to move to Chicago.

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Sounds like a no-brainer to me. Correct me if I'm wrong, but can't you go back to your original routine if for some reason the fellowship doesn't pan out? Sounds like something you might regret if you don't take it. Worth a shot.

Without really knowing all the details, and pros and cons, and how you really feel about moving, I'd have to say take the chance.
Looking back, knowing that I never took any chances or risks because I was afraid, is what I regret the most.
I would encourage you or anybody to take the chances that are offered to you and run with them. See where it takes you. Go. You'll never know unless you try it.
Good luck!

You've got a point, I'd have to pass required state exams before May 21, 2016 until I'm officially a part of the program. Yes, I could still finish my Master's here if things don't work out. Is this normal? 😅 lol I just feel like people don't just switch programs like this. But it is worth a shot once more.

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If it is something you are passionate about it sounds like a fantastic opportunity. And from what you have said then you also have a plan B if it doesn't work out for whatever reason.

I think it is completely normal to switch and have other plans - peoples lives and situations change and new opportunities present themselves. At the end of the day it only matters what works best for you.

Whatever you choose I wish you the best of luck with it!!

Would the year you've already spent studying count for anything towards the new program? How much time do you have left in your current program? How many years of full time salary would you give up if you switched and is it worth it to you? What are your total costs out of pocket over five years if you compare both programs?

I would continue to pursue the DC opportunity while you explore all the advantages/disadvantages. You have until May to really make up your mind!