Use the optional essay to your advantage

Application deadlines are here, and the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid has been getting a lot of calls and emails lately. We’re glad you’re reaching out to us with your questions. I’m choosing to tell y’all about something that has NOT been asked about, which is the optional essay. [Before you get too far:…

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If you’re missing NYC during Winter Break: Favorite Places to Study outside of Columbia University

Although Lehman Library is the default, and perhaps easiest, place to study for SIPA students, there are plenty of other spaces to explore throughout the City. Sometimes it’s great to get out of Morningside Heights and make the trip to other neighborhoods. Below is a list of some of my favorite places to study off…

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Congratulations to Rep. Elissa Slotkin MIA ’03

Yesterday the 116th U.S. Congress was sworn in, and it’s one of the most diverse groups ever, including the largest number of female members in Congress with more than 100 women in the U.S. House alone. Elle.com featured 35 new women elected to the U.S. House of Representatives back in November, including SIPA alum Elissa…

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“I’m coming straight out of undergrad. Should I apply?”

When we here at Admissions talk about what we look for in a SIPA candidate, the first item on that list is professional experience: “Most successful applicants have had at least three years of work or internship experience relevant to their intended course of study.” But every year, the incoming class has a small percentage…

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Checking in as we count down to January 5th

There’s about 10 days until the January 5th application deadline, and I wanted to check in on how you’re doing. Hopefully you’ve gotten your test scores, transcripts, and letters of recommendation squared away, as well as having the bones of your personal state and short essay together. Not there yet? Definitely follow up with your…

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