OliveT

Just wondering if I would like to (at least try to) build a skill set that’s marketable in the private sector (esp. in consulting, say Booz Allen and Deloitte, etc.) , what programs would you recommend? I understand that an advanced degree alone cannot guarantee anything, as the chance also depends on recruiting preparation and my previous experiences, but still it would be great if I can attend a program that might potentially help with my transition from the public to private sector. From what I saw on the websites, Harris, HKS, and SAIS (specifically the international Econ and finance major) seem to have sent some people to consulting. However, since the exact numbers aren’t revealed, I was wondering if those who successfully passed the narrow door of consulting with a policy degree are anomalies.

Thanks for reminding. I’ll definitely double check if I need to take the GRE.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! I took a closer look at the curriculum of Chicago Harris, and indeed it looks very robust. I can imagine if students can survive two years there, they will be well trained to conduct complex analytical work. It also seems to me that MPP at Harris (or UChicago’s reputation in general) is heavily quant-oriented? Since my gmat quant (49 points or 79%) and my major GPA (around 3.5ish in quantitative economic, and what I got in econometrics was not to mention...) aren’t that stellar compared to other top candidates. Would you recommend that I should strengthen my quantitative profile if I am to apply to Harris?

1. I am not that into IR theories, although they are closely related to what I do every day haha. Another question regarding Chicago is that, how much do you think the location matters? Georgetown, SAIS, SIPA, and even HKS seem to be closer to the political center (i.e., Washington D.C.). 2. This question is a bit of digression from the program discussion, but it keeps bothering me, so I figured I should still ask. That is, I am struggling to build an impactful extracurricular profile. I've been doing some translation jobs for NGOs and am learning several languages but nothing significant. How would you recommend that I approach the extracurricular section? Thanks again for the detailed answer. I really appreciate it.

Thanks for replying. ? 1. May I ask why you recommend University of Chicago MPP? U of Chicago is definitely a prestigious school, but its MPP curriculum seems to cater to the domestic policy, doesn't it? 2. If I am not mistaken, you seem to be less positive about European programs. What are the reasons? 3. What about the Fletcher school of diplomacy? I don't really mind math, but since I am not confident about my writing, I hope to become a better writer by writing a lot at grad school.

Hi guys, I am hoping that I can use the wisdom in this forum to bust myths about some programs and decide which schools to apply to. I would love to hear your, especially alum’s, thoughts on the programs mentioned, whether I have incorrect assumptions about them, what I failed to consider, and, if possible, program recommendations (not limited to the those mentioned here.) Also, I'll be almost 30 year-old when submitting applications. Will being older negatively impact my chances of getting in? I’ve been working as a diplomat for a small Asian country for the past five years and am hoping to apply for graduate programs such as MPP, MPA, MIA, etc. next year. I’m almost sure that I’ll return to foreign service after graduation. I am looking for a reputable program offering solid education, specifically in development studies, and a strong alumni network. (Not sure if it matters, but a bit info on my academic background: a BSc degree on quantitative economics with a GPA around 3.7 from a top state school in the US. Got a 750 on the GMAT.) The following are some points I come up with a few programs that I’m interested in (regardless of the chance of getting in): American schools like HKS and Columbia SIPA: Pro- reputation is strong worldwide. As I’ll be coming back to Asia for sure, it might help. Pro- wide range of courses. For example, I took a look at SIPA’s audit list and instantly saw many courses that fit my interests and career goal. Pro (not so sure)- strong alumni network (?) Con- expensive. Have to spend near 20k for two years; my employer will not sponsor my studies, so it is almost a deal-breaker for me. Also, I’m not sure how generous these programs are in terms of grants and how competitive my profile is in grant applications... European schools like Science po PSIA and IHEID: Pro- chance to polish my French. It’s my goal to be verse in a second foreign language since it will help with career advancement. Pro- will probably leave the campus with much less debt. Not so sure- alumni networks seem to focus on Europe. Not so sure- They are certainly very competitive and reputable programs, reputation is limited outside of Europe. Many thanks to those who read my long post and take time to reply.