u/Fiks_1

Hello! I'm currently trying to decide between Boston University and the University of Pittsburgh for an MPH in Epidemiology with a MCH Certificate, and I'm honestly stuck.

Academically, I like both programs. The faculty, research opportunities, and overall fit seem strong at both schools, which is making this decision way harder than I expected. At BU, there are way more faculty doing research in my research area of interests, while there are some at BU, but not as much. 

A little context: I'm interested in maternal and child health, epidemiology, and research, and I'm hoping to eventually attend medical school. My goal is to use the MPH to build a strong foundation in epidemiologic methods and population health so that I can integrate public health perspectives into clinical practice. I hope to pursue a career where I can combine patient care, research, and public health initiatives particularly in areas related to maternal and child health and continue conducting research that informs evidence-based interventions and health policy.

Right now, some of the things I'm weighing are:

• Research opportunities and mentorship (I strongly want to go into research, and would love an environment that would be filled with resources and people who are helping me grow)
• Strength of the epidemiology training and the practical transferable public health and research skills I can carry forward throughout my career
• Networking and career opportunities
• Student culture and overall quality of life
• Graduate Outcomes
• Access to hospitals, research institutes, and public health organizations

Boston seems to have an incredible concentration of research institutions and opportunities, but the cost of living is honestly intimidating. Pitt seems more affordable and I've had really positive interactions with faculty and staff there, but I don't know as much about the long-term opportunities compared to Boston.

For anyone who attended either program (or considered both), what ultimately made you choose one over the other? Looking back, would you make the same decision again? Would especially love to hear from MPH students, alumni, or anyone who has worked in public health research after graduating.

Sorry for the long message, I am just hoping this helps get answers with context. Thanks!!!!

Hello!
I'm a prospective student for BU School of Public Health, and BU is currently my top choice. The biggest thing making me hesitate right now is housing and trying to figure out whether living in Boston would actually be manageable for me, or maybe consider Pitt SPH.
I've never been to Boston before, don't have a car, and I'd likely have to apartment hunt remotely, so I feel like I'm trying to make a huge decision without really knowing what day-to-day life would look like.
A few things I'm looking for:

• Open to roommates, but I'd want my own bedroom and bathroom
• Don't want a crazy commute to the BU Medical Campus
• Would like to be somewhere that's walkable and has things to do nearby (coffee shops, restaurants, grocery stores, gyms, etc.)
• Access to public transportation is important since I won't have a car
• Safety is definitely a consideration too

If you were in my position, where would you look? Are there neighborhoods that strike a good balance between affordability, convenience, and actually having a life outside of school? Also, how difficult is it to find housing remotely? Am I overthinking this, or is the Boston rental market really as intimidating as it seems?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Trying to figure all of this out on my own has been a little overwhelming 😅

Thanks!