Jae B.

water pick

I'm sticking with a MacBook. Multitasking is essential, and I believe it's missing on the iPad. I'm often syncing notes and pdfs with Dropbox, adding citations in Zotero and reading from an academic search engine at the same time. The best thing about my laptop is taking notes right next to my readings, with my assignments and Google open to handle quick questions. Perfect screen size and position, easy-to-use keyboard. That said, I understand the urge for a stylus. I have a Livescribe pen and notebooks that I sync with my computer, so I have a complete database of my notes at all times.

LOL. That's to the point. Great advice!

fresh mouth

I would always save some money for emergencies, but I'd start paying down the debt now, personally. The more you pay down now, the better for later when interest starts accruing again. If you seriously pay a few hundred dollars a month toward this for four years, less than half will be left! If you only save your money without reducing your debt, you never know what'll come up four years from now that might stop you from plunking it down on those old loans. I'd just take advantage of this opportunity to chop 'em in half and worry about the rest later. That said, I'm all about debt avoidance.

ply format

As a urban / city person who became accustomed to rural areas, is there any chance you could become more open-minded about city life? I don't think you can go wrong either way, but school A sounds better for your long-term goals. I still think you could have a great experience there.

Baja California (Hope they're okay after the earthquake.)

I've been slightly surprised by Columbia's lack of funding and underfunding. In a field like mine, going into major debt for a degree is kind of ridiculous.

I would definitely go with the undergrad professor. Never underestimate them. Two current, one recent past is a good balance. And the voice of someone you've really made proud is priceless. Plus, it'll be a boost to your undergrad record -- your Masters is more important but they'll still look at your undergrad from what I've heard on these forums!

Hmm, to me, the fact that you're considering an MS over a fully-funded PhD opportunity at Carnegie Mellon says maybe you don't really want a PhD -- at least not yet.

facial peel

orange juice

family nights

banana peel (Oh, oldlady [wha?], I wish I knew Brooklyn, but I was referring to MacArthur Park the song!) (And pea-jay, go Wine Country! I lived in Sonoma County for 10 years.)

Banana Republic

Hmm...have you made a decision yet?

Haha...oops. So much happened in March, though! It's been very informational. I expect this month to be busy, too, though, because tough decisions must be made.... :/ Definitely can use the support.

...too late

People's Park

Ah, thanks! Is that the group you have to register as a Columbia student to join? It's good to know not much is going on there yet, though.

MacArthur Park

rubber chicken