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MArch program indecision... OSU vs. UC?
Hi,
So, the thread title says it all - I'm having real trouble deciding which program I'd like to attend for my MArch. I'm an undergrad at UC (cincinnati) currently, and because I applied via preferred admission I have to make a decision by March 29th.
At UC I would have a small scholarship (2,500 a year) and a decent shot at a teaching assistant position. (factor in co-ops and it gets cheaper) At OSU I would have a sizeable scholarship for my first year (that basically pays for my tuition) with a decent shot at a TA position my second year. So, really, the cost of either program will be pretty negligible.
Anyways, I guess I have two main questions I'd like to pose.
With my undergraduate background at UC (technical/professionally focused) would it be worthwhile and constructive for me to 'broaden my horizons' at a more theory-based program? I feel like that practice-oriented perspective is absolutely critical (which is why i chose that program for my undergrad) ... but would going for my master's there as well be redundant? When I spoke with Michael Cadwell (OSU's director) he suggested that since I've already had several co-op experiences (and built up my resume), more of the same in grad school may not necessarily be as valuable to me as a totally fresh, new experience.
I've never been an avid architectural theory fan - I think my approach to architecture is pretty direct (maybe simple-minded) but clear and expressive. I guess that's why I'm shy about wading into a more philosophical program. Has anyone had an experience like this, where they did their master's at a very different type of program, and thrived?
I know my mindset is very professionally-oriented. I anticipate my career with a very practical sort of perspective. (how much of that is my personality and how much is UC's education is unknown) But I'd hate to pass on an opportunity that could really spur some great change and growth in my abilities for the better.
I'm at my wit's end trying to figure this out!
Anyways, I was curious if anyone had any suggestions or positive/negative things to say about either program. Or maybe just a story of your own experience will be helpful.
I'm a recent grad of UC...I was accepted into the MArch program and chose not to attend. If you are guaranteed to get into Jerry's skyscraper studio (heard he isn't even teaching it this year) and to have Tom Bible and Rebbeca Williamson (can you say odd couple?) on your thesis comm then you'd better go to UC. However, it doesn't always work that way. That being said UC is a fantastic school, love the campus and community, I learned a great deal in only 4 years...I wouldn't trade it for anything.
Hopefully you did all the networking you could while you are at UC so that you've left no stone unturned...I know I did. Now at a new school you have the chance to expand your network with a completely new group of people. OSU has 50k students, I promise you that there is at least one person that you will meet there to make it worth your while that you wouldn't have at UC.
Also, your former co-op employers may be your greatest source of objective advice. I strongly suggest not talking to professors at UC about staying or leaving because you already know what their answer will be.
Best of luck!
Also, it wouldn't hurt to talk to the current grad students...I did when I was making my decision and it helped me a great deal. Don't be afraid to go over to the Neihoff studios next qtr.
Woah, two days ago I was pretty much in the exact same position as you, F1. I was accepted to both UC and OSU. However, I had my undergrad in a theory based program at UVA. I liked UC because of their COOP, but I have plenty of work experience from summers and this past year working in an architecture firm. I ended up choosing OSU because they offered me a GA position which cut the tuition in half. Were you at the UC open house on April 2? I was there. Personally, I was not a fan of their building and facilities. OSU has a very nice building and facilities in comparison. As for the coop, i finally came to the conclusion that since the program is 3 years, 1 of which being a paid coop, that it was comparable to OSU's 2 year program, that the 3rd year having being graduated and earning the money to pay for school instead (granted w/ UC you have a slightly better chance at actually getting a job, but u already have that in your resume). The economy seems to be turning around for the better, so in 2 years getting a job should not be too difficult.
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