Sc04

Accepted with $50k funding to the MPA program!

Schools/Programs Applying To: Columbia SIPA, UChicago Harris, Johns Hopkins SAIS, Princeton WWS Undergraduate institution: Top 10 law university in India Undergraduate GPA: 7.74/10 Undergraduate Major: Law GRE Quantitative Score: 158 GRE Verbal Score: 166 GRE AW Score: 5.0 Years Out of Undergrad (if applicable): 7 years Years of Work Experience: 7 years Describe Relevant Work Experience: I worked with a non-profit consultancy on good governance, reproductive health, justice for 3 years. I have been working freelance on development sector projects in law and policy in India for the last 6 months. Strength of SOP (be honest, describe the process, etc.): I have not written it yet but think I have a strong narrative: I switched from corporate law to the social sector because I wanted to do something more purposeful. Have worked with non-profits and government in India and I know that I want to come back and contribute in a more significant way. Strength of LORs (be honest, describe the process, etc.): 2 decent ones from my current and ex jobs. However, I need another one (ideally academic) so I need to figure that piece out. Questions I have: (i) Would anyone have recommendations for suitable 1 year public policy programs for mid-career professionals? I am not looking at part-time executive programs but I would ideally like to have a peer group that I could learn from etc. (ii) I can get an LOR from a director at the non-profit I was working with, however she’s currently in between jobs. Would her recommendation carry less weight now that she won’t have an official letterhead to write from? Would really appreciate some insights and advice! Thanks in advance.