American SIS vs. Pitt GSPIA

[carriedubv]

I know there are a few forums regarding this topic out there, but I wanted to get some fresh opinions. I've been admitted to several schools for security studies/IR programs and have essentially narrowed it down to two- American SIS and Pitt GSPIA. Pitt has offered me a hefty scholarship (almost a full ride), while AU has given me no aid. I love that American is so close to where I ultimately want to end up, but I am not sure I am thrilled about having only night classes (I am coming right out of undergrad). Pitt, on the other hand, is allowing me to come out of grad school debt-free, but I don't feel like the faculty, name, and location is quite up to par with American. So, should I go for the name or the money? Please help!

[Learn619]

Is your American U concentration: US Foreign Policy?

Also, will you be attending the 'regional' accepted-students conference for your respective program that AU is having in the upcoming week?

Edited March 31, 2012 by Learn619

[carriedubv]

Learn619: Yes, I would be entering the US Foreign Policy Program at AU. And no, I will be unable to make the accepted student day. However, I saw the visited the campus yesterday and spoke with a representative within the program.

[washdc]

SIS doesn't only have night classes.. not sure where you got that info. I have a class this semester at 2:30.

But anyway.. it's for people who work/have internships, which will also be a part of your grad requirement.. so the evening classes might actually work out for you.

[carriedubv]

washdc: Sorry, its not SIS, but rather my program (USFP) that offers night classes almost exclusively. And yes, I have learned about the internship requirement. I agree the night classes can be beneficial for those who want to intern or work during the year. It's certainly not a deal breaker, just a difference of experiences between the two programs. How do you like AU?

Edited March 31, 2012 by carriedubv

[Learn619]

Just for knowledge, what is your intended career trajectory, post -grad degree? Do you want to work for the US Gov't (security-related agencies?)

[carriedubv]

Yes, that is my intended path. Governmental work for some national security agency.

[Learn619]

Yes, that is my intended path. Governmental work for some national security agency.

I would lean towards AU, particularly If location is at all an important factor for internships/employment. There are tons of people I've seen post on this forum who will tell you that "these agencies have people from all different schools and backgrounds", and I'm sure this is true, so either way your academic route seems solid. I think that overall, AU will simply give you a leg-up in the "getting your foot in the door" career route, and a major contributing factor there will be the fact that you have access to countless venues relevant to the US security-apparatus located there in DC.