A tough decision

Colleges and Universities A-Z Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
1

<p>I'm currently having a huge dilemma deciding between University of Maryland College Park and Rensselaer. I'm going to be a physics major (probably double majoring in math) and both schools have a good physics program. I recieved the Banneker/Key scholarship at CP and with other stuff I'll basically be making 3k a year if I decide to go there. Rensselaer on the other hand, while being my first choice, only offered about 17k in aid (medal and 2k leadership), with maybe 1-2k coming from national merit. I'm really having a tough time justifying paying an extra 25k a year for my undergrad education. Can anyone give me an idea of just how much better an RPI physics education would be, and how much more respected a degree from RPI is in the working world / graduate programs?</p>

<p>Also, does anyone who has experience with RPI's financial aid think it would be worth a call to their office to appeal the aid decision? I was quite dissapointed with the package based on my credentials (especially after seeing what CP gave me), and I figure if moeny is the deciding factor on where I go they might be inclined to give me a bit more. At least it can't hurt!</p>

<p>Thanks,
beanboy</p>

2

<p>I know nothing about U Maryland, and very little about RPI, but 24K a year??? You've got to be kidding - that is a lot of money! It would be no contest for my kids -- hello U Maryland.</p>

3

<p>RPI has a graduate program in physics. One possibility is taking the "free" undergraduate program and go to RPI for graduate school. Just check how graduate placement is at the other school. RPI does have big name recognition for job placement. As far as appealing the merit aid offer, I did try and was not successful, but the $60,000 medal scholarship is nothing to sneeze at.</p>

4

<p>Definitely give the Fin Aid office a call. They told me to scan in other scholarship offers and email it to them. It can't hurt.</p>

5

<p>Thanks for the opinions, I emailed the financial aid office and am waiting for a reply. I'm away for the weekend so I'll give them a call if I haven't gotten a reply by the time I get back.</p>

<p>-beanboy</p>