American v. Georgetown v. NYU for Latin American Studies MA

[Latin Americanist]

So I've been admitted to all three, and I'm torn between money (Amer.), prestige (Gtown), and love of the city/great people in the grad. program (NYU). My goals for post-graduation are set in stone, but I'd like to make a career working on diplomatic matters in the region in a government or international organization capacity, though I'm somewhat drawn to media as well. American is offering me a half scholarship, but neither NYU nor Gtown are offering anything (except what may be better names and programs). I would really appreciate any help you can give me. Thank you people of the internet!

[HKsai]

It depends on how much money and if all the programs cost the same.

[Latin Americanist]

It would be $20,000 in a stipend+tuition remission+merit aid package. NYU and American are $35,000 for the year. Georgetown is $45,000.

Edited April 9, 2014 by Latin Americanist

[HKsai]

I feel like location (internship opportunity), name, money and the program are always the important factors. I would probably rank name/prestige last though except if it is a huge gap between the schools (which i don't think it is in your case). I will throw out Georgetown if the name is the only deciding factor because i think all three schools are super well known and offer great education. I still think georgetown has other pros like internship opportunity for what you want to do, but you will have to think about if other places offer the same opportunity. You said you love the NYU program and I think that's the most important factor. So if Georgetown is out then it comes down to the only deciding factors which are money and internship opportunity. Obviously, AU is cheaper so then you will have to decide if money is more important or your love of the NYU program. I personally belive (not really familiar with your field) that you can obtain a job that you want no matter which school you attend since they are all great. Now you just have to decide between money or love of the program. I can't decide it for you since I don't know how affordable NYU is. I would say NYU since it seems like you love it so much, but it always comes down to your own decision. Sorry for the rambling.

[Latin Americanist]

Thanks a lot. These decisions aren't easy. I feel like I'm getting married.

[HKsai]

Of course you can always just go to NYU since i'm going there which makes me extra awesome LOL                                 jk