Q: Does the EFFS program offer any funding opportunities?

Why yes, we do! We offer a semester grant program, which can help you fund a semester when you are enrolled in courses. We also offer a travel grant program to help you get to the conference, meeting, or big event that will help you build your career network. Check out the EFFS Fellowships page for more information and applications, and the links page for potential conference opportunities.

Q: I want to work internationally during my graduate degree. Can EFFS help me do that?

A: While EFFS doesn't directly fund international work, we have several opportunities at MSU to study, research, or work internationally as part of your degree. MSU has international student exchange and study abroad opportunities, Peace Corps Master's International Program (In the Departments of Community Sustainability and Agricultural Economics) partnerships, and many faculty with international research opportunities that may suit your interests. The EFFS Adviser can help you navigate these options - feel free to set an appointment!

Q: I have a great research project idea, but am having trouble with funding. Where can I go?

A: Though many students work on projects per-determined by their academic adviser, many have additional ideas that need just a little funding to get off the ground. MSU students are some of the most frequent recipients of grants from the North central Region SARE Graduate Student Grant Program as well as the Ceres Trust, who funds organic research. The limit on both of these grant programs in $10,000. But just think of what research you can do with $10,000! There are also several other small and large grant programs that might pertain to your research - talk to your faculty adviser to see what might work for you.

Q: I am having trouble finding a committee member outside of my department to fulfill my EFFS requirements? Can you help me?

A: Yes, we can! Please set up and appointment or call the EFFS adviser, Julie Cotton. She will help you find a good fit for your research and career goals and will help you to clarify expectations with all your committee members and primary adviser.

Q: What if I don't finish all my requirements for the EFFS program?

A: Though we strongly encourage you to plan ahead and hope that we can make all the proper accommodations to help you fit in your requirements, sometimes life happens. Not finishing a specialization WILL NOT keep you from graduating, nor will any "incomplete" tarnish your transcripts.