With the February 5th deadline approaching, Marsela offers advice on crafting your personal essay to tell your unique story.

The key to a standout application lies in a rigorous and mindful editing process to present your most authentic true self. In this blog, Sena highlights how to refine your personal statement with feedback, vulnerability, and a thoughtful approach.

Tunjung Putri shares a glimpse into a day in her life as a second-year MPA candidate at Columbia SIPA. Between academics, her assistantship, and her life outside the classroom, learn more how she maintains it all with a strong focus on her career goals.

Driven by a passion for sustainability and supported by SIPA's Career Advancement Center, Shambhavi Gupta '25 speaks to Colby about her internship experience that allowed her to contribute to an innovative solution while gaining valuable exposure to the climate-tech industry.

The SIPA video essay is your chance to showcase your personality and thinking skills—don’t stress over perfection, just be authentic and thoughtful. Follow Marsela's tips to confidently approach the process, from preparing in advance to presenting yourself naturally on camera.

With our upcoming fellowship deadline approaching on December 20th, we invite you to read more about ways to create a financing strategy before starting at SIPA.

With the fellowship deadline approaching on December 20th, we're hoping your application sleighs (translation: slays)? The admissions office is here to help you. 

Headphones, emotional support waterbottle, and lipgloss: oh my! Read how Pooja packs her school bag for her days at SIPA to stay prepared.

Moving to NYC can feel overwhelming, but Pooja reflects on her experience of building a community through sports, hobby clubs, and solo activities that helped her create a fulfilling work-life balance and make the city feel smaller.

From early mornings to bike-riding in nearby parks to attending class, Fred Lee, a second-year MPA student at SIPA specializing in International Security Policy and DAQA, shares a day in his life with Colby on the admissions blog.