I was recently accepted to Fordham University’s Lincoln Center campus as a political science major. When I got the news, I was extremely excited as I believe the New York City aspect of the campus is exceptional. However, despite also being very proud, my parents are worried about both the price and missing out on the traditional college experience available at larger universities. My parents and I both believe having a good “college experience” outside the classroom is important, however, I am not one that seeks parties or other large social scenarios. Is it my own ignorance of life in college that attracts me to Fordham? I was additionally accepted to Seton Hall University in the School of International Diplomacy. Despite being less selective as Fordham, I received a very generous scholarship and Seton Hall possesses a more traditional campus setting. Seton Hall is located about 45 minutes to an hour away from NYC so is it worth sacrificing being immediately in Manhattan for a less selective school with a traditional campus.
Please let me know your thoughts on both life at Fordham and my situation.
I read online that the political science and law opportunities available at Lincoln Center were somewhat more expansive than Rose Hill. I don’t know if this is correct or not but this is just what I heard. Also, I still am very attracted to the aspect of living in the middle of New York City as I believe it will augment my learning experience. I just don’t know if it is worth sacrificing a more traditional campus for.
I think your parents concern about the cost of Fordham is well founded, just be sure it is affordable. As for the “traditional” college experience. I wouldn’t be too concerned about that, your experience is your experience whether it involves football teams and walking across the quad on a traditional campus or enjoying the charms of NYC. I wouldn’t call Seton Hall’s School of International Diplomacy less selective exactly, it has a very good reputation. Both choices are good. Do some research on the commuter tendency at Seton Hall, it was my understanding that the campus tends to clear out on weekends, at least that was the case 2 years ago when we were considering it for my DD2016 when she was accepted.
I believe it is possible to take classes at the Rose Hill campus if you’re a Lincoln Center student, and vice versa. That could give you some of that traditional campus feel, if you want it. Also, I have known students who transferred from one campus to the other, but that was several years ago. Check out Fordham’s current policy on this.
If you want a traditional campus life why don’t you try to get your acceptance moved to Rose Hill? My S felt that Rose Hill was the best of both worlds – a distinct campus with easy access to Manhattan. People do internships in Manhattan from Rose Hill.
Academically I do think Fordham is superior to Seton Hall but you need to see if the finances can work for your family at Fordham.