beekline

I've learned a lot just going through the process...but I also realized that many applicants had exposure to international relations in some way or another....and basically focused on that in their SOP....I have 0% exposure, and not only graduated with Business degree, but work for major fortune 500 company as analyst...so business, business, business, and they probably saw it as a career change thing, and I didn't present it well..... But fleetly Thanks!

Erry! Thanks so much, I'd love to stay in touch and thanks for the suggestions, let me know how best to stay in touch...in case this forum comes to an end

Hi guys! Well I figured it will be just a matter of time when I have to depart from ur official sipa class of 2014. Still sad that I'm not part of it and this forum made me realize even more how great sipa students are! Best of luck to all of u with ur study and career...as for me well it back to gre and whatever to get accepted next year. As always any suggestions are appreciated!

Hi guys! Again congrats to all and for few who are still waiting...I'm sure it's just a matter of figuring out how much money to award u!!!!! I thought to pop up a question if u care to share ur background and yrs of experience before applying to mpa mia programs? Thanks!!!

Wow all this waiting is paying off! Congrats!!! I think I'm the only one rejected still addicted to this forum!

erry3779....sorry for any negatively...I really was just sharing what I've learned...but maybe I should have added all the positive things I have learned as well....I just figured its kind of a given, SIPA is one of the best programs out there, I know more probably about MPA DP perspectives, because I only interacted with students from that program, but one thing for sure is that most of them love it, and once again it all comes down to what you make out of it. The tools are def there!!! ....oh wish I had such decision...am I the only one rejected and still following this?.....I am very happy for you guys and I think I should be forwarding my SOP for your review at the end of the year before I hit that SUBMIT button, to insure I get acccepted as well, and we continue to stay in touch...

Totally agree with u comments. I was just sharing what I learned and surprised that few decided against the program especially after being committed to it. But like we both said its very individualized. What works for one may not work for others. Some will be successful without this high cost program and few may fail even graduating top programs. So with that said good luck to all with all ur choices !!!! I think all on this forum will def be quite successful!!!

Hi guys. I have a friend that is a current mpa dp student. This info is not to discourage anyone but just sharing information. According to my friend few students quit the mpa dp program because it failed their expectation. Well considering they only accepted like 25 students that's a lot. yes I also got that some students are not all totally happy with the program and prospects afterward.... But I guess it's like that everywhere. No where is perfect but what u make out of it.

Wantgrat. Congrats!!! Not sure how many people here in this forum r from us or abroad. But bringing up my question that no one answered yet. I went to community school before 4 year college. Is that a weakness when viewed by those top tiered school? Thanks!

My letter was dated the 15th, and it was available online the following day, the 16th, and the email was received 2 days later.......

Wow, thanks IRToni! ...This is why I love this blog so much, I really appreciate the advice and help. And I def see why I wasn't chosen for such specific program. Its tough to get relevant experience that university requires to be competative, its tough to get a job without relevant education as well...No way out! No no im very optimistic, just joking! There is always a way I guess..... My work is "influencing" me into CFA program (financial analysist designation) that takes all if any available time that I could potentially use toward MPA program preparation.....

HDPFDan, Thanks for ur response. Yeah I gathered more info as I applied and also came to conclusion that my development experience, or better said inexperience is a weakness for such specific program as MPA DP....I met with so many people, and heard the same question: "tell me about your travel experiences?..." and I could only respond, well, I am still paying off loans from undergrad, working, and raising a kid.... And then the second major factor was my failure at GRE....considering I work for quantitative group, you would think my GRE would rock!...

Hi Guys! I was rejected from MPA DP program a week ago, and still can't stop checking this blog! I guess I will be going through the application process again late this year, so trying to figure things out what can I do until then to make sure I get accepted! GPA 3.7, studied Business Admin with concentration in Finance Went to community college first (3.5 GPA) then transfered ---- do universities (like Columbia) look at that as a weakness?.... GRE - retaking in a few month, i did poorly on verbal part (English is my second language) Working as analyst for asset management company (5yrs), intl division, doing research, data analysis, corporation actions etc.... I don't have any real volunteer work, I do try to do little stuff now and then, but having a full time job and a baby is tough to dedicate time... I don't have any real travel experience like many strong applicants, once again Im either working or taking care of my daughter So with said, I would apperiate any suggestions!!! Thank you, and good luck to all of you guys that are still waiting!

oh this was my rejection letter, anyone has similar?..... In considering our applicants, the Admissions Committee looks for a variety of characteristics that indicate the ability to complete our rigorous program and participate in focused professional development activities. These characteristics include relevant professional and/or volunteer experiences, a strong quantitative background, demonstrated excellence in writing, and the ability to articulate future goals and how these goals relate to the SIPA curriculum. Due to the large number of applications we receive, the admissions office is unable to provide individualized feedback about the details of your admission decision. Please note that your application materials will be kept on file in our office for two years. You are welcome to reapply. Details regarding the process of submitting another application in the future are available at: http://sipa.columbia.edu/resources_services/admissions/reapply.html

sorry to hear re: rejections....the weekend helped me to recover...I got my notification on Friday for MPA DP program....you would think for 100 bucks that we invest, we would at least get something more than a general letter?....