Creative Writing

I’m finishing up my B.A. in English (and a B.S. in Business) next spring, and I’m looking at MFA programs to apply to. Any suggestions on universities to look at?

I’m pursuing my MFA in creative writing, and someday hope to teach creative writing at the collegiate level. I’ve been accepted to the MFA programs at Iowa (arguably the top MFA-CR school) and at Columbia University, which is also in the top five. I’ve always had an attraction to Columbia, as well as its Graduate School of Journalism (I have my Master’s from U of Missouri and am considering continuing my j-degree in order to teach, possibly). However, though Iowa is the perpetuated gold standard, I’m really stuck between it and Columbia. I know the difference in the pricetag, but what are some of your opinions?

I want to go back to school to get my masters. Problem is, the only thing I want to do is write. I’ve been looking at MFA programs in creative writing, but there’s a little part of me saying “why would you do that? you won’t be able to do anything with that degree.” Does anyone have an MFA or plan to get one and feel good about the decision? It’s just a lot of money, and I’m already so in debt from my undergrad. I have a journalism degree, and I’m currently working in the publishing business, but the more time goes by the more I’m itching to get back into the classroom. I think I’m meant for a more academic environment. What do you think?

I love creative writing, and all I want to do is just barely earn a living–just survive. I’m trying to get into MFA programs, but the ones that fund well are really hard to get into. If I fail, I’m trying to figure out what else I can do.
When I meant keep writing, I didin’t mean just in my leisure time. I already know hoe to do that. I meant, how can I eke out a living and keep writing as a vocation.