luckysoandso

I'm glad to hear you raised your scholarship, even a little. You've inspired me. So, I've decided to go for it...I went to the admitted students shmooze-fest and felt that it would be a really good place for me. I qualify for and am extremely interested in the international social work program, as I've written before. Also, I feel like the name and alumni network and those benefits are worth the cost. I plan on formally borrowing money from my grandmother, or if not her some other private source, and though it does practically give me an ulcer, I really think it's worth it. Hopefully I'll also be able to find more substantial $$ for the second year. Nevertheless, I totally understand your hesitation. I think if I were just interested in something like school social work, or regular clinical practice, I would go somewhere in-state and more affordable. In my particular situation I just want to go for this incredible opportunity. As soon as I found out I was in, there was really no other alternative. Let me know what you decide!

Annie, what did you do to get them to change it? Email or call? Or camp out in their office? I really need to get on that.

I've decided to bite the bullet and just go to Columbia. I received my financial info a few days ago and it was pretty paltry, as expected, but I just can't pass up the opportunity to attend this amazing program. Nowhere else I applied to had anything as unique as the international/immigrants and refugees concentration, which really complements my experience and interests, and I knew I would regret it if I went somewhere else. However, I totally understand all of you who are reluctant to choose (or even consider) CUSSW. It is a really tough decision, especially with the [truly ridiculous] financial aid. I'm sure that everyone will make the best decision for him/herself. If anyone's going to the admitted students day next Saturday, see you there!

According to the admissions person who gave the info session, the field work is a little in between what you said - you don't get to choose, but it isn't random, either. The school puts a lot of time and effort into selecting a good match for you (based on a field placement form). Every student has a mentor on-site who can help with any problems/concerns. If it really isn't a good fit you will be moved. I don't know if you can change this now, but if you live in the NY area and you already work in a social work setting, perhaps the reduced residency option would be a better fit? I would definitely direct your questions to the admissions office (or go visit if you are nearby - so worth it).

I haven't heard yet, either, and I don't look forward to finding out how little aid I'll be receiving. However, I visited on Friday and was really impressed with the building, people and program. I'm still waiting to hear from other schools, but Columbia has been and still is my first choice. The price takes my breath away, but I really feel like the education is worth it.

I'm really excited about the international concentration. I'm visiting this week and hope to find out more about it. I feel like the debt is worth it if I decide to do something really unusual (like the international focus); if I really feel that I just want to go the traditional child/family concentration (as I thought when I had no idea I'd actually get in to Columbia), I'll probably choose somewhere more affordable. But this really is a fantastic opportunity. Can you tell I'm excited?!?!??

Hi Annie, I also found out today that I got in, and it was a huge (and immensely pleasant!) surprise. I have no idea how I will pay for it. I'm waiting to hear from VCU, which, as a VA resident, will be a bazillionth of the price (and has a legendary MSW program). So I'm with you in solidarity, but without answers. I guess I'll just have to wait and see what they offer me in terms of money. Have you checked out the housing website yet?