I am between Yale and Columbia. So far my list
Yale pros: Accessible Faculty, smaller cohort, accessible work/research opportunities, Yale name, reputation of classmates building a "community"
Yale cons: Not as highly regarded in public health, limited to my chronic disease epi choice, New Haven, no chance of me commuting
Columbia pros: Highly regarded in public health, large faculty, Columbia name, New York City, I could possibly commute, connections in NYC already, more flexibility because I haven't chosen a certificate
Columbia cons: very large cohort, reputation of inaccessible faculty, cost of living if I dont commute, stiff competition for research/work study positions even in second year.
Would love to hear others thoughts.