afae39

Hey everyone, I just sent in my acceptance to GSPIA. So I'll be joining you in Pittsburgh this fall.

Urban grime? Really? I'm also a Case student, graduating this year, and I have to disagree (I'm from a suburban area originally). I think that the Case/University Circle area is quite nice - especially with Little Italy and Cleveland Heights right there - however if you traverse to East Cleveland (NOT Case's campus) you will be in a "grimey" area. The new renovations with the Cleveland Museum of Contemp Art, cancer center, and planned new student center should also help brighten up the area. The main theme of CWRU is that it is what you make it. Don't walk around East Cleveland or the lagoon at night. Find friends who will go out and explore the city/have fun. Learn to love snow - go sledding and have snowball fights. Buy a warm coat, boots, and a scarf and you WILL survive, I promise. Good luck!

I sent my acceptance in to GSPIA today. I ended up finding out that I'd have to work 500 part-time hours at Mason in order to get one free class, which was a lot less impressive than I'd originally thought. It came down to me liking Pittsburgh a lot more than the Arlington area, the opportunities to expand on my degree (Latin American studies certificate, MBA dual degrees), and a full-time student oriented program. I'm pretty excited with my decision. Thanks for the input!

I'm not sure I'd qualify for in-state tuition at either school, at least until being there for a year (I currently live in Ohio). Also, the free classes are in addition to the monthly income. I've heard a bit about each program and the basic theme I keep getting is "both programs are strong", which is nice to hear but not very specific. I was unable to make it to the GSPIA open house, so I was unable to talk with current students and faculty from there. And I have to let Mason know by Friday. How fun.

I've been wrestling with this decision for a few weeks and constantly reading these forums, so I figured I would just ask for advice. I was accepted to UK's MPA program, which I immediately decided was not a good fit for me. That left it between George Mason's MPP (major in international governance) and Pitt's MPIA (Security & Intelligence). Comparison: Mason - job offer ($1k per month, free class per 100 hours worked), commuting between Fairfax and Arlington campuses, many friends in the area, high cost of living, great cities and DC connection Pitt - no money during first wave of offers but I plan on exhausting external and school-based options + finding a job, great educational opportunities (Latin American studies certificate, International Organizations MBA @ Geneva), DC internship/semester, great city with affordable living, closer to home I have to let Mason know by April 15th, Pitt by May 1st, so essentially I need to make a decision this week. Any advice or experiences you'd like to share? Thanks!

Has anybody else heard? I'm pulling my hair out since decisions are supposed to be sent by tomorrow.

I heard from Mason about the MPP almost two weeks ago now, with no mention of funding. I'm surprised they still haven't let you know. I did only get a decision in the mail, no electronic notice whatsoever, which might be contributing to your letter's tardiness? I hope you hear soon. Good luck!