SpiceySkittles

Coming from: Atlanta, B.S. engineering from Georgia Tech and 4 years in software/logistics consulting. Deciding between: Columbia's SIPA - (0% tuition) Johns Hopkins' SAIS - (75% tuition) Georgetown's SSP - (0% tuition, financial aid waitlist) Career Goals: I want to leverage a STEM background to solve IR and security problems. This could be STEM-weapons analysis for federal 3-letter agencies, political and supply chain risk management for private companies, or strategy consulting focused on defense. Other factors Simultaneously received an offer to work as an intelligence officer in the USAF. Certainly many pros (experience, security clearance) but also cons (little control over type of job and location, 6 yr commitment, GI Bill doesn't help much with private school tuition). I have family/friends in DC, and overall like the city more than NYC. How I'm leaning: Currently thinking grad schools in general offer more diverse career opportunities, better network, and flexibility. I want the practical, hands-on approach over theory, which means SIPA's 2nd year practicum sounds perfect for me. However, Columbia is too expensive, and unless I hear my financial aid appeal has been granted in April, I have to consider SAIS my top choice. Does anyone know if SAIS or SSP have 2nd year projects/capstones? How quant-heavy can I go in SAIS vs. SIPA? Is the Ivy League brand worth it financially? Thanks!