I've been accepted to Chicago CIR, NYU (MA in Politics - IR), GWU Elliott, and BU. I was just recently rejected by my top two choices - SAIS and Fletcher.
*I'm still waiting to hear from American, but probably won't consider it if I'm in unless they provide a good deal of funding (since I'm already in at GW).
*Not really considering BU, since I'm in at these other schools.
I was wondering what people's thoughts are comparing the relative quality and intellectual environment of CIR, NYU, and Elliott. I'm Wellesley grad, enjoy a rigorous academic environment, have spent a good deal of time abroad, and am considering careers in either policy think tanks or international consulting.
Is CIR worth it (being a 1-year program far from policy centers)? What is GWU's quality in comparison to SAIS and Georgetown (from the perspective of DC-area employers)? How is NYU viewed in policy circles? How are these programs viewed in the private sector?
Any advice would be appreciated.
*Chicago is providing 1/2 tuition, so financially this is definitely a deal.