Based on what I found when applying to various schools, this is hands down the best and most focused international development program out there right now.
First, everyone is focused on international work, unlike many programs that combine international and domestic issues in one program.
Second, all students come with work experience and time spent abroad – no one comes directly from undergrad, which makes a huge difference – and the small, tight-knit cohort of 20-30 students creates an intimacy I haven’t seen anywhere else.
Third, the professors are incredibly engaged and accessible: they want to get to know the students, play a large role in the program, and help students to succeed.
Ari Gandolfo standing in front of mountainFourth, this program is very well connected to the large players in the DC development field, from USAID and the World Bank to NGOs like Mercy Corps and Save The Children.
Fifth, the pragmatic nature of the program, including a fully-funded summer internship abroad and a year-long capstone project with a client, builds professional experience during the program and prepares students to land great jobs after graduation. I’m totally convinced GHD is the best choice.