Help!! Deadline approaching UCLA vs. Columbia ( Social Sciences)

[Makeda]

The deadline is this Monday I was just accepted into Columbia's AfAm MA Program. I now have to decide between UCLA's Afro-AM and Columbia's MA Program. I spoke to some recent grads at both schools and they pretty much said that they had a good experience at their prospective school blah blah. 

 

I have not been able to secure funding for either so I that would not be an issue as far as making a decision based on that. I like both programs but I feel I still have a problem choosing one over the other. I know UCLA is cheaper than Columbia, however it would not make that big of a difference for me if Columbia's program is Amazing! 

 

I also know that Columbia is ranked 5th while UCLA is 10th in terms of this field. Has anyone heard anything about these programs. Please Share!!

[Seeking]

If you can afford Columbia, go there.

[Makeda]

I would be taking out loans for both schools soooo....it would be based on that

[ZacharyObama]

I presume you're instate for UCLA - Columbia is what twice is much? Do you want to go on to a PhD? How are you going to pay down the loans? How would either school affect your research interests?

Edited April 14, 2013 by ZacharyObama

[Makeda]

I am instate. Columbia is twice as much and I do want to pursue my PhD!

As for loans---I know its inevitable for many MA programs in the humanities so I have made peace with that. If I can find a way to ease my burden, great. If not, I am prepared for that as well.

 

I know for sure I would have to get into a fully funded program for my Doctorate, no compromising there.

[Makeda]

I Believe it depends on the person as well. Majority of folks have mentioned that the quality of the program is more important to them and they wouldnt mind being in loads of debt ( they see it as a large investment lol). Other half believes that costs should be a major consideration and it all depends on what YOU can accomplish in your program. 

[ZacharyObama]

I'd say it comes down to research interests and opportunities along with chances to reduce your debt load while in school via TA/RA positions. Doing those two things is going to make you a more attractive PhD candidate than someone who manages to do an MA without coming out with a publication or two and doing work for the institution.

 

Are you in LA or somewhere else? I'd think your living expenses for New York would be slightly higher on rent and food.

[Makeda]

This is true!

Living elsewhere but went to undergrad in NorCal/originally from LA. 

[ZacharyObama]

So it's kinda the familiar vs. something new.

[Makeda]

Exactly! I know both programs are interdisciplinary so it would afford me the unique opportunity to take classes and connect with professors in other disciplines. 

 

The professors at both schools are really good and I have been able to identify professors/faculty that fulfill my research interests. 

Perhaps Columbia has a better/wider network and resource that I can tap into--being that it is a private school

This is really a tough decision!

[Makeda]

Also, If I were to go into International Affairs or Academia, would an Ivy League background benefit me?

[rising_star]

I wouldn't spend the extra money to go to Columbia because it's not enough ROI (return on investment) considering how much more you'll spend in tuition and living expenses. If you want to go into international affairs, you'll want to do an internship during your program and I'm sure you can find one in LA, just as there are many in NYC.