frodobaggins

Hi guys, Revolution's worst prediction came true for me. I dinged in my MBA apps and now hold two admits - MPA/ID at HKS and MIB at Fletcher. I want to work in the private sector after the degree (consulting vs business conglomerates). I have a business degree before, good quant scores and a private sector background in consulting. Which program do you think will give me a better shot at my career? I'm a bit concerned about MIB being too new and MPA/ID being too development focussed. Have to give my response to the schools in 3 days and just unable to make up my mind! Would appreciate any thoughts.

Hi, I'm new to gradcafe and have been browsing forums all day. This place is fantastic, so am hoping for some perspective on my dilemma! I have received admits to Fletcher MIB (with ~ $25k/yr) and to MPA/ID at HKS ($ 0) and am torn between the two. :blink:Would appreciate thoughts on both the programs and how they compare with each other and other competing degrees and in helping me achieve my career objective. I'm from a developing country and have a private sector background but with a ton of volunteer work. I have always been interested in international and developmental affairs which is why I applied to these programs. I have a prior MBA and an engineering degree. I'd ideally like to work in a consulting organization (that works for the government) or in an IGO in a role that draws from my skills acquired in all the schools. I have a strong quant background and exposure to eco. Everyone I've been talking to asks me to go for the Harvard brand name (industry agnostic, opens all doors,etc) over Fletcher, though Fletcher's pretty great too. However, it's personally hard for me to say no to a 25k/yr scholarship esp when HKS has given me no funding! Looking at the prospect of a $120k loan is scary to say the least! Considering all this, which program do you guys think would give me a better shot at my career goals?