Saladin

Hi everyone, I need help deciding between going to SIPA or GPPI. SIPA has given me no first year funding, while Im still to hear from GPPI on that. So, disregarding the funding issue, which one is the better option? A few facts to help you decide: Im an international student looking at working in the development field, so it seems SIPA would provide more job options due to the NYC connection. Also I think alot of jobs in DC are with US govt. agencies, which would count me out, although that's just my opinion and I stand to be corrected. As far as GPPI goes, does it have the same reputation/ranking as its Foreign Service program? And would GPPI give better options as far as consulting/private sector jobs are concerned? Any feed back would be really appreciated!

Just got acceptance e mail from GPPI! This late in the game, I had lost all hope...but no financial aid decision. They said the official letter will arrive in two weeks. Does anyone know if that will contain the fin. aid info?

le_neocon, I agree with your analysis at the end. Yes, policy schools do open up private sector jobs, but I think it would be foolish to go for IR solely with the private sector in mind. If that's the case then the MBA is the best option. The only thing is, doing MPP/IR gives you the private option AS WELL as the non profit/multilateral/govt options. What do you think? On a different note, Im also considering both SIPA and SAIS, difference being Im still on the waitlist for SAIS! Which way are you leaning? Im a little concerned about SIPA's supposed 'cash cow' reputation. On the other hand, I think Columbia is a more well known school globally. Plus its NY location would be a big plus as far as networking with multilateral orgs is concerned. What say you?

sorry for the double post.

carpecc, assuming you dont get off the wait list for SAIS, and wont start grad school this fall, what's the harm in deferring SIPA? it doesnt cost you anything and still keeps an option open for next semester. And if youre really stuck on SAIS, then buff up on some econ course work this year and reapply next year. that's what i think. good luck!

Hi everyone. Im facing a slightly similar situation as 007. I got into the SIPA MIA without funding, and on the wait list for SAIS. The trouble is that cuz i got waitlisted by SAIS i wont be in the running for a scholarship that im pretty confident i would have got if i had been a regular acceptance. The question is: Given my focus on international development, and that I actually get into SAIS without funding, which one should I go for? As an international student Columbia's brand name really appeals to me, but Im also aware of the reputation of SAIS's IR program among employers. Any suggestions would be welcome!

People, any idea if GPPI is still sending out acceptances? I wish they would tell me already, one way or the other!

hi, im one of the many accepted to SIPA without 1st year aid. From an international student perspective, is it a good investment, especially if my aim is international development?