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Decisions, Decisions

Columbia or Penn? It is June 8th, and I thought I would have made up my mind by now.

In fact, when I tell people (all 3 of my friends), I'm going to Penn, it would seem that I have already made up my mind. Yet the fact that I still have options until June 15th is actually quite frustrating, but in the best way decisions are fought with tension.

Columbia or Penn? Why not Princeton? I hadn't even considered Princeton. One look at their admissions numbers, and I felt like running, screaming, fleeing towards NYU. I've been to Princeton, for its graduation and some events on campus. What strikes me is the overall INTENSITY of the university, the level of commitment students have to their studies. Driving through the campus at 11PM, or 10AM, the campus is quite, and I imagine the entire campus is studying somewhere. I found it thoroughly inspiring but I could not muster the same enthusiasm during my years at NYU. I remember the days I was at Cornell for a summer honors program, where I spent my entire days studying, doing additional readings and preparing for class. It seemed that there was nothing more important than my studies. As a grad student, I hope to return to that state, in a far away place.

I suppose that is why I am more committed to Penn. I am not sure how valuable a Penn degree from the School of Social Policy and Practice would be. The best thing to do is just ask others, right?

I have too much homework to do. I need to feel content with my decision. I need to take this step and move forward. I have established a routine here, and I will have to relearn everything over there (Philly). I'm so scared I cannot make up my mind.

Today's projects: (1) Mail out thank you letters (2) Applications (3) Barnes&Noble for research

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