<p>I'm not one of those uber-special students but I'd still like to try for Northwestern since I really liked the learning environment there. So I'm wondering about the school I was going to apply to, the school of education? Is it a good school, are admissions harder or easier there, etc.</p>
<p>It has one of the best education programs in the country, as well as a few other programs that are really "hidden gems" of Northwestern (I am in one of them so I would know)- these are Social Policy, Human Dev & Psych Services, and Learning & Organizational Change.</p>
<p>The admissions pool isn't less competitive, necessarily, but it's probably smaller. I think because of this, a less-qualified but more driven student could get into SESP, with essays that really demonstrate an interest in the school and its programs, with a deep knowledge of why it's the right school for them. So doing some research would definitely help you out there.</p>
<p>But if you do get in, it's a wonderful place to be and definitely functions as a second home at Northwestern.</p>
<p>thanks so much. I actually have been researching a ton, but I can find almost nothing on the school except for US rankings and the School of Education's own statements. I think I'd really like the "smaller school" environment there, so I'm gonna try really hard although I'm also worried about the tuition issue too.</p>
<p>Are the other majors within SESP also considered to be outstanding programs in the country or is the "education" major that is the stand out?</p>
<p>Thanks.</p>
<p>I don't know how they rank, but ones like HDPS and LOC are pretty unique so it's tough to compare them to other programs in the country because there aren't many. But overall it is SESP itself that is ranked well (at the graduate level) and everything that makes it good definitely trickles down to undergrad and to every individual program. It's the basic atmosphere and philosophy of SESP that make it a great school to be a part of, regardless of major.</p>
<p>Will you please describe the atmosphere and philosophy that sets SESP apart?</p>
<p>If you don't go into education, what other occupations spring out of HDPS and LOC? </p>
<p>Thank you.</p>
<p>It is just basically a smaller, more tight-knit environment. Many of my LOC classes have been seminar style, involving lots of discussion, group projects, etc.- not just lecture/take notes/take tests, like many other classes. In the SESP building itself, everyone is there to help you; the advisors actually advise you, and you are always free to stop by the student affairs office for candy, a chat with one of the advisors or even the very friendly dean of students. It is a welcoming place to be and it comes in handy when you need help or direction, because the staff is really there to guide you.</p>
<p>HDPS can be used for things like social work, guidance counselor, or some other kind of psychology involving children, I'd think. I don't know much about the program though. LOC can be used as a substitute for business (which is what I use it for) since it involves organizations, management, etc. and you can take elective classes about marketing, econ, etc. that all count for LOC. Other people use it for consulting, organization reform, and things like that.</p>
<p>I'm curious as to what kind of people go to SESP. Are the people who join SESP any different than the general student body?</p>
<p>I've heard that people in NW overall r kinda sporty, while anyone who knows me knows I'm obviously not. lol (although I'd like take up something if I can at college, like cross country or swimming?)</p>
<p>But yeah, I guess I don't have very exciting ecs, one of my main ones being kinda odd (Speech team, which my friend nicknamed "the cult" cause of how obsessive they are about practices and attendance). I guess what I'm asking is if I'd feel comfortable among the student body. (or perhaps I'm just detracting my thoughts away from how good my chances r, lol).</p>
<p>"Speech team" is not unusual at all. It's very common among high achievers. Also, NU is one of the only "top-flight" schools with a speech team. I'm not sure you'd want to get involved, but it's certainly worth a look-see.</p>
<p>I think SESP students are very similar to the regular student body. Most join SESP because of the programs, and then are pleasantly surprised at the level of attention they get from advising and such. Also, I have met many kids at NU who did Speech Team in HS.</p>