Ditto

Hi team! I am admitted to SIPA MPA-DP and SAIS IDev with the same amount of aid which amounts to similar costs of attendance for both. I am trying to decide between the two. I have about 6 years of experience in International development and want to transition into working in sustainable development finance. Based on what I have gathered - SIPA - great for working in sustainability in general with the option to take classes at SUMA, great campus etc. Lots of flexibility in coursework. Older cohort with people coming from more experience background (in the DP prog) However, I am not able to map out how well connected sipa alums are within themselves as well as to policy networks in multilaterals etc and I am not necessarily keen on working at the UN. I am generally less aware of the opportunities NYC offers as a city for international development professionals. SAIS - Less flexible coursework with a lot of quant requirements that I have done before & taking waiver exams is not a risk free option. there aren't many courses focusing on sustainability issues within international development, in comparison to SIPA. SAIS does not have a campus vibe at all. younger cohort - significant number of students, straight out of undergrad Situated in DC - with great access to multi-laterals think thanks working in sustainability. SAIS alum networks seem tighter and more well-knit within certain institutions. Generally, so far having interacted with the two schools through the admissions process, I found SAIS folks to be way more approachable and readily available with information than SIPA. At SIPA, it definitely felt like a struggle trying to get info and connect with alum. I am trying to assess how much of a difference that would make in the overall experience. Any inputs/suggestions for people who know more on either course/school would be great!