Fledermaus

I agree and disagree here. I believe it is fine to ask, but do so professionally and keep it brief. It is fine to give a short explanation that you discovered a school that may be a best fit, but only just recently. That kind of thing happens. Here is where I disagree: I recommend you provide all available materials with the request. If she says no, then whatever, but if she says yes, you are equipping her to have the maximum time possible with maximum resources to write the letter. She won't have to wait on you to send her anything. Make her job as easy as possible and she will be more likely to help. Sending the CV and SOP with the request is not added pressure on her, it shows courtesy on your part. Just remember, if you don't ask, you guarantee yourself a 'no' answer. Give yourself a chance at a yes.

I agree that neither is a good choice. I would look for an alternative. Do you need an academic referral? If you have been out of school and in the workplace for a long time then supervisors may be better. You mention that one professor was 10 years ago, have you been out of school that long?

I am trying to decide which school, CMU or UW, is better for me, so I would appreciate your thoughts. (It is a long question though, my apologies). The cost of each school is not a deciding factor as they will end up about the same for me. Also, I already have a job and will complete the degree while on a sabbatical, so I will not need to seek employment after graduation. I do not currently live in either WA or PA. I am looking for strong quantitative curricula, information management /cybersecurity emphasis or at least electives, and plenty of other students around me with at least some professional experience. Advantage of UW Evans: 1) I have family in the area that I haven't lived near in more than a decade 2) strong CS heritage 3) strong quantitative program with emphasis in policy analysis 4) strong rankings and reputation 5) huge school with tremendous research resources. Disadvantage of UW Evans 1)far from the hub of federal government 2) no established emphasis track in cybersecurity. 3) higher cost of living than Pittsburgh. Advantage of CMU Heinz: 1) higher ranked program 2) top tier CS program at CMU 3) cybersecurity concentration is available 4) 16 month track is available 5) excellent quantitative curricula 6) is a master of science degree 7) is endorsed by the NSA. Disadvantage of CMU: 1) far from family so no built in support system 2) smaller school with fewer research resources 3) not as well known on West Coast should I decide to live there later on. Honestly, the family support is a real consideration so it makes UW enticing. CMU seems to be more respected though and may offer better CS studies, plus the existing relationship with the federal government is good for career contacts. As an added monkeywrench, I am also considering GWU Trachtenberg, but it is second to UW and CMU in my estimation. It's a tough choice and I would appreciate your thoughts.