Hey!
Hopefully some of you can provide me with a different point of view on this matter.
I got admission to some great programs in Statistics. Now, I have some questions:
The fact that the program from Berkeley is an "MA" rather than a "MSc" will hamper my chances of enrolling in a PhD later in life? (I am almost certain that I do not want a PhD but who knows!)
In my country, COVID vaccination campaign is a complete disaster. If I enroll to the most expensive of these programs in the US, I know I will regret because I will be taking my classes online. Should it be a real concern? Do you anticipate that classes will resume next fall?
I think that theory is utterly important in statistics. I have seen tons of guys who have no idea of what python or R are doing, but they keep "running their codes". Basically, I am aiming to have a well-balanced education in Statistics. Chicago has that part (strong theory) but from my point of view, they lack the practical side. I was told that I could enroll in some course at the Toyota Institute but I am still not really sure if that will be enough. On the other side, Berkeley has a very applied curriculum, but I hate the part of just being there for 2 semesters (3 at most). Finally, from what I have read, UIUC has great Statistics and CS departments, but they do not have the big name of the others (I really like the CS department at UIUC!). To sum up, statistics practicioners, is it really important the name of the school from which you get your title? My described focus (50%theory-50%applications) is reasonable? Do you have any comment you want to share reagarding any of my proposed programs?
PS I have looked at their websites, but this time I want to hear from former accepted students (hopefully reading this).
Apart from this, how are you notified about finacial aid granted? Neither of my letters touch on the subject. Am I supposed to ask them? (sorry, I am an international student, I have no idea)
Thank you all for reading this