I just graduated with a BS in business, but want a career in interior
design. I'm looking into the FIDIR accredited schools right now, but
can't decide which schools to apply to in SoCal and in NY. Do school
reps carry a lot of weight in this field? There seems to be art
schools that offer interior design and institutes that are stricly for
interior design? Is one better than the other? Is there anything else
I need to take into consideration when choosing a school?

I am an interior designer with a BS in business.  My interior design
training came from a very well respected upscale furniture store in my
area,where I started working while I was still working on my degree. 
And THEY paid ME to take the training.  I worked there for 5 years.  I
am now out on my own and I have never lost a customer because I don't
have a design degree.  They rarely ask, but when I tell them were I
received my training, they never object.  I have found that the most
important keys to growing my business have been to talk to EVERYONE
about what you do, ask your customers for referrals, and become
involved in local clubs and organizations to increase the number of
contacts you have.
Visit my website at www.TheInteriorAlternative.com.  You may get some inspiration!