MaggieDot

Hi NatalieM, 
 
I really struggled to make a decision, but I ultimately went with Hunter. My decision had more to do with cost, since I would have been happy to attend either program. I know NYU is more clinically focused, but a lot of clinical experience comes after MSW--plus, I hear Hunter's clinical track is also really good. 
 
I took time to find NYU and Hunter students/grads to ask around their experiences there. Each had great things to say and shared their challenges at their program as well (but I think both schools had a lot in common with regard to this. Ex. Awesome/awful teachers and discussion facilitators, professors are available). 

One thing that did stand out was that Hunter does a lot less "hand holding" than NYU in some areas, which appears to have a more active networking dynamic. I think this is noticeable in my experience just through email communication. NYU has sent me at least 6 emails with information/welcome messages and events/reminders and deadlines, whereas I have had to call Hunter about 5 times to figure out what the next steps are. I can deal with it, though. I'm moving to NYC and am low income, so I'm trying to accumulate as little debt as possible and choosing Hunter will help me reduce that amount significantly. 

Hi NatalieM, 
 
I really struggled to make a decision, but I ultimately went with Hunter. My decision had more to do with cost, since I would have been happy to attend either program. I know NYU is more clinically focused, but a lot of clinical experience comes after MSW--plus, I hear Hunter's clinical track is also really good. 
 
I took time to find NYU and Hunter students/grads to ask around their experiences there. Each had great things to say and shared their challenges at their program as well (but I think both schools had a lot in common with regard to this. Ex. Awesome/awful teachers and discussion facilitators, professors are available). 

One thing that did stand out was that Hunter does a lot less "hand holding" than NYU in some areas, which appears to have a more active networking dynamic. I think this is noticeable in my experience just through email communication. NYU has sent me at least 6 emails with information/welcome messages and events/reminders and deadlines, whereas I have had to call Hunter about 5 times to figure out what the next steps are. I can deal with it, though. I'm moving to NYC and am low income, so I'm trying to accumulate as little debt as possible and choosing Hunter will help me reduce that amount significantly. 

Hi JillB162!
 
Yes, I agree with Lisa4420. I think the point is for you to form an argument based off of an opinion/your interests. What will be your area of focus going into your MSW program? Maybe thinking about what's most important to you as a future social worker is a good place to start.
 
Good luck! I know writing personal statements is stressful--I'm in the same boat!