Nuemero

Hey, Congrats on the admissions and fingers crossed for those still waiting! Can someone comment on Columbia's social work program and Berkeley's social welfare program? I have to choose between these MSW programs and I don't know where I should go. Columbia notified us that they've extended their admission acceptance deadline which raises a few eyebrows in why people aren't jumping on Columbia's boat. I don't know anything about the difference at private and public institutions as I applied as an international student. People have told me that Columbia has more resources for graduate students because it's a private school. UC Berkeley's social justice culture is really appealing to me but I want to ensure that there is still a foundation in supporting people through experience and interaction. Thanks everyone~

Congrats to everyone who received admission and fingers crossed for those waiting. I'm looking for some advise on choosing schools. I'm an international student and I've been offered admissions to Berkeley's Social Welfare and Columbia's Social Work Program. Columbia's first year cohort is around 400 and Berkeley's is around 100 grad students. I'd prefer a smaller school and graduate program and I doubt social services/post-masters programs care about a school's name than the program so Columbia's name itself is not even a consideration for me. However, I've heard that Columbia offers a lot of different opportunities considering all the diverse agencies in NYC. Others have told me that California comes off as a very privileged state and agencies are better equipped than those in New York State. I don't how valid this point is. However, if this is indeed the case... I am worried that my experience and expectations in the West Coast wouldn't be as realistic or practical if I decide to work in the East Coast. I'm at a lost on where I should go so any help would be appreciated, Thanks ~