IzChmiel

Hello! I've been following a lot of posts, and now I have a week to make my final decision....I need your advise! I've strategically applied to 3 schools -- UCLA's Luskin, GW's Elliott, and JHU SAIS -- and got into all. For logistical and financial reasons, I am not going to SAIS (though it's a great school). I'm between Elliott and Luskin. The two programs I am considering are different - MPP in International Public Policy vs. MA in Global Communication with focus in Int'l Dev./Public Diplomacy - though both within the sphere of int'l/public affairs. My concerns.... - Reputation: UCLA is ranked higher than GW at the university level, but Elliott is more reputable than Luskin. Contradictory! - Marketability: MPP is a more practical degree that's more quant heavy, but the MA has flexibility for quant courses too (though not as rigorous) Though Elliott is better connected, and recent GC grads are at the State Dept. and BoozAllen.... - Location: I've lived in D.C. for 4 years and worked at the World Bank. My longtime significant other wants to move to Cali and I want to too, though have some reservations. Career mistake or refresher? Based on your knowledge and experience, what's the better choice as far as value of the degree and future prospects? Thanks so much for your input, I really appreciate it!