Help - What will next year be like?

[M123]

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I hate to ask that question already, but I am considering rejecting an offer to Loma Linda University SPH and re-applying to schools next year. There are only 4 or 5 reputable schools that offer the accredited program I need (Coordinated MPH Nutrition), so I'm trying to figure out if I'm better off accepting at LLU even though it will cost me over $60,000 when I factor in cost of living.

If I'm accepted to UMN, I will definitely go, but I do not want to throw away my opportunity to attend a good school now in order to throw my hat back into an even more crowded and competitive applicant pool next year. UMN is increasing the seats in their program next year (not sure by how many). I have a B.A. in English Literature and Speech Communication, which does nothing to help me now!!!

What do you guys think? Will next year's application cycle be even worse than this year, and, (aside from all the rules) would LLU be a good choice?

Thanks a million in advance for your opinions and advice...

 

[aspiringmph]

I don't think anyone can tell you for sure, but I have noticed that a number of accepted students are deferring for a year due to finances. This would mean that their spots are saved for next year, so there are fewer spots for new applicants. I am sure this varies a lot by school and program.

If you were not accepted this year, do you have a plan for what kind of additional experience you could have to make yourself a more attractive candidate? What is UMN's reputation for giving out aid? Does it fit into your personal plans to wait for another year or will you just be killing time? Personally I'd be worried about throwing away a sure thing for an unknown, but that's a decision that you'll have to make.

 

[MPHhopeful47]

Don't worry too much about many spots being taken for next year - many schools won't allow you to defer and instead require you to reapply. I know that this is the case with both UCLA and Berkeley.

 

[M123]

I am hoping to become specifically involved with cancer patients, so I would probably volunteer more with cancer-related programs. Because my BA is in English Lit. and Speech Communication, my research opportunities are basically non-existent. I really, really do not want to put grad school off for a year; but, at the same time, like you said, I do not want to throw away a sure thing. I had not considered how many students have to defer this year due to financial reasons (or maybe who have just held off applying until next year), so thank you for bringing up that point. Maybe the best option is to wait for a decision from UM. I can judge my chances of success next year on why they rejected me this year (but here's hoping they don't)...