UDLAP Posted April 4, 2013 Posted April 4, 2013 Hello all! I am a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer interested in continuing a career in development. I have narrowed down my grad school choices to: Columbia vs. Fordham. Let me explain why. I basically fell in love with SIPA's MPA in Development Practice as I was serving in West Africa. I also understand the value of the Columbia name and network, BUT Fordham has offered me a full ride, plus an amazing living stipend, plus a one year internship in the UN, plus a fellowship to go abroad in the summer, plus a fellowship that most likely leads into a job with CRS as soon as I graduate. I think you will all agree that this is an amazing offer that I have to consider. Any advice/suggestion would really be appreciated. Thank you!
cunninlynguist Posted April 4, 2013 Posted April 4, 2013 Is there a scenario that could typify the gap between an ideal offer and one based mainly on university's name better than this? You did unbelievably well with the Fordham acceptance -- there is no contest here. Enjoy your time at Fordham!
zabius Posted April 4, 2013 Posted April 4, 2013 (edited) BUT Fordham has offered me a full ride, plus an amazing living stipend, plus a one year internship in the UN, plus a fellowship to go abroad in the summer, plus a fellowship that most likely leads into a job with CRS as soon as I graduate. I think you will all agree that this is an amazing offer that I have to consider. That sounds amazing... the opportunities at the UN and abroad, as well as the likely job at the end of the program make Fordham the clear winner here, hands down. Yes, Columbia has better name recognition, but name recognition will only get you so far. All of those internships and fellowships at Fordham will probably take you even further. The generous funding doesn't hurt either. :-) Congratulations on the fantastic package! Go with Fordham. It's not a bad school by any means (I know a lot of happy Fordham alumni). Edited April 4, 2013 by zabius
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