<p>I am a graduate perspective student in China. Since the accessible information is relatively limited to me, I do need your advice.
I have received the admission from University of Miami, Master of Arts in International Administration. I have another choice, University of Denver, Josef Korbel School of International Studies, Master of Arts in International Administration. How about your opinions on these two program? Which one do you think is better?
Your advice counts. Thank you! look forward to your words anxiously~</p>
<p>Hi, I am in the exact same situation as you- Int. Administration at UM or International Administration at Korbel (I did my undergrad at U of Florida). I am so distraught because I do not know which program to choose. I am from FL and there are things that I LOVE about living in this state, but at the same time I’d be up for a change of scenery (although I hate the cold :/…). I am having a hard time determining which program is stronger. It seems that UM as a whole is a stronger academic institution, but Korbel has a very good reputation in the international studies field. One thing I’ve also thought about is diversity… I just visited Denver, and there honestly is no comparison to the amount of ethnic diversity in Denver/DU to Miami/UM. I aim to work abroad, so wouldn’t I benefit more from being around other ethnic groups? Denver is a nice, clean city but I just don’t know. Ahhh I am freaking out because I only have two weeks left to decide!</p>
<p>If you want to learn/study/practice Spanish, then Miami would be great. If you like to ski, Denver is great. If you hate the heat, pick Denver. Otherwise, I’d pick Miami based on better overall reputation as a university.</p>
<p>Miami is the more reputable and internationally recognized university.</p>
<p>I’m assuming you have carefully looked over both the programs online, because you really want to choose the one whose courses offer you the best chance to do what you want to do after you graduate. From a location perspective, I’ve lived in both areas. Both places have a lot to offer. Denver: Biggest draw is the weather and the fact that it is great for outdoor activities-if you like that (walking, bike riding, hiking in the mountains, parks, river rafting, etc…). Everyone always assumes it’s “so cold”, but what they forget is that the sun shines 300 days out of the year, it has the 4 seasons (unlike Miami) and there is something to say for Fall: (beautiful change of color in vegetation), warm cozy fireplaces and skiing in winter w/jacuzzi nights/ Spring:amazing color, back to wearing shorts time, etc…and Summer: best part is NO humidity or mosquitoes! Average temp: 85 in summer-compare that to high 90’s with over 75% humidity in Miami. Also Miami does not have the 4 seasons, but you may enjoy the 2 seasons: dry and wet. The “winter” is mild and very pleasant, the summer is horrible and most people try to leave (think sauna…). I speak Spanish and got around just fine in Miami and love all the ethnic food choices, the beach (when I could go), etc… but you will find it is more expensive than Denver. In Miami, you will pay dearly for parking everywhere in Miami (I have lived in 4 different U.S. states, South America and Europe, and have never seen parking issues and prices like Miami…) Both Denver and Miami are large cities, but along with Miami’s Latin ambiance you’ll also get the disorganization that goes along with it in terms of traffic, crowds of people, etc…I love to dance salsa, merengue, etc…but it all comes at a hefty price in Miami. So, bring money because University of Miami is very expensive and you will-as most all college students-want to do all there is to do in Miami. My daughter is currently attending UM, but will be transferring to CU Boulder in Colorado-30 min. from Denver. She paid $222.00 a year for a student “discount parking” permit (which only allows you certain inconvenient garages). If you want to be able to park anywhere on campus, you pay $444.00/year. I don’t know what your situation is, but make sure you are looking at other costs that are NOT tuition as you make your decision because you may be limited by cost: dorms and their meal plans, or renting outside of the university, having access to a car or using public transportation, etc…You’re on this forum which is great, but continue to do LOTS of internet searching on both cities and see which one fits your personality so that you’ll enjoy your experience in every way-not just academically.</p>
<p>Thank you so much for the thoughtful input! You raise some very valid points to consider… I am leaning towards Miami due to preferences within both the academic program and the location- planning to visit the campus/Coral Gables very soon and after that I think I’ll be able to make the right decision for me personally.</p>