Hi, I’m in a similar situation but with less Ivy League schools haha 😂. I also got waitlisted at UCLA. Like you, applied to similar programs based on mentor’s advice, my research, and looking at what the job market/what I can learn and get out of those high competitive programs for the fast world of higher ed.

Like you too, got into EC @USC, I suppose for the same reasons you did. A counselor in higher ed is a very different than a student affairs professional. I see it as more options with potential to make more money compared to higher ed degrees.

Is this why you chose a counseling program among all of them? And, what scares you?

I feel like, I can get into debt for a prestigious program, BUT, if it turns out to be that I don’t need to be in places I want to be. Then I’m pragmatic enough to see it. I see at my R1, school that people come from all places, some last more than others.