Where should I go for Public Policy?

[gradfeegalore]

So I got into American, GW, and Georgetown for their Public Policy Programs. I've decided to goto Georgetown for sure but I've yet to hear from UC Berkeley and NYU.

Which one should I go for those three? I know Berkeley and NYU is higher ranked that Gtown for their programs but for some reason I think Gtown has a stronger name when it comes to policy and doing work in government/politics/campaign after graduation.

Your thoughts?

[dagger]

Congratulations on getting into all three! Is funding going to be a factor in your decision?

[psycholinguist]

Yeah, congrats! Would being in D.C. be a major plus for you?

[policy_applicant]

hi gradfee galore,

congrats on the acceptances! i'm assuming you haven't heard anything about funding yet. georgetown is an excellent program, and after my acceptance i'm considering it pretty strongly, but especially considering the strength of both wagner and gspp, i have to imagine money will come into play at least a little bit.

you should stop by the "government affairs" board.<--http://forum.thegradcafe.com/viewforum.php?f=15

we have a pretty good discussion going on there, and it's almost all mpp/mpa applicants.

[gradfeegalore]

Thanks everyone for the reply! I'll definitely check the Government Affairs Board.

Money is an issue, but I've yet to hear from any of them about financial aide. As for the DC locale, I know its useful for job/internship searches but does that weigh heavier than a higher ranked school (according to US News) like Berkeley or NYU?

[Dreams]

Thanks everyone for the reply! I'll definitely check the Government Affairs Board.

Money is an issue, but I've yet to hear from any of them about financial aide. As for the DC locale, I know its useful for job/internship searches but does that weigh heavier than a higher ranked school (according to US News) like Berkeley or NYU?

Things to think about:

1. Which of the three schools has the program, classes, and professors that best matches your interests?

2. Will you be happier in a particular location?

3. Have you checked to see where the alumni at the three schools are working now? Which school has the most alumni working in your future field?