My Two Cents...
Based on my own experience, I can assure you that being in Washington D.C. does make a huge difference depending on what you intend to do after you graduate. In my case, when I was transferring from a city college in California, I had the option to go to either UCLA, UCSD or American University, all for their international relations program. I was not familiar at all with American until a professor told me that I should really consider it. I ended up at AU, graduated in May of 2008 and have been fairly well employed since (1 year at the World Bank and another 2 at the IMF). A friend of mine chose to go to UCLA's program, which I was uncertain about prior to taking AU. It happens that he too has been well employed, but working in the private sector (Pepsi in Europe)... Now, when it comes to Harvard (worldwide brand!) and Georgetown (unique location specially if you intend to network/intern while in the program) the decision is really though! I would consider how much aid you get (or not) from one vs the other. But, more importantly, keep in mind that, although closely related, Public Policy and Foreign Affairs are very different programs! My undergrad was in IR and I now wish to pursue an MPP before returning to my country and contributing to society through politics -- I have no doubt about my intentions, and that helps a lot!! Maybe that's the inner question... what do you REALLY wish to do after grad school?!...
