Am I making the right decision? (state over private)

<p>Sorry, to bother you guys. Not to long ago, my number one school was Case Western. About two weeks ago I received information from Ohio State saying that I had won a full-tuition scholarship from the Maximus essay contest. I was very excited because Ohio State was my 2nd choice. Now that I seriously take a step back and look at the overall picture, Ohio State is both more financially realistic and a better fit. It is over $10,000 cheaper than Case. Also, I would be in the honors program and would have preference scheduling. Ohio State will take all of my AP scores and transfer credits, unlike Case. Finally, I think Ohio State has a lot more to offer when it comes to a fun social life. Both schools have great psychology programs (my planned major). Now, I have prayed and thought hard about this decision for over 4 months, and I think I am making the right decision by going to Ohio State. It is close to home and my dad's work too. Now, my question for you is: am I making the right decision? If I work hard and commit myself, can I get the same quality education from Ohio State's honors program that I would get from Case (a school better known for their academics)? Thank you in advance for everyone who replies. I hope everyone else has had an easier time picking out a college! :)</p>

<p>Chelsea:</p>

<p>That is the dilema many parents and kids face, and there is no easy answer. You will find examples on the both side and if you are determined you will do good no matter where you end up. You are going in a field of study that would require graduate work, and saving money for the first four years may be beneficial. Go with your feelings and have an honest conversation with your parents. Be happy, make the decision and don't look back.</p>

<p>What are the benefits of going to Case?</p>

<p>Let's rule out prestige because, no offense intended, Case does not carry the weight of the heavy hitters.</p>

<p>So if it's not prestige, and there is no special program/reason for going to Case, I suspect that you fear getting lost in the crowd. After all, isn't Ohio St among the top-5 largest enrollment schools?</p>

<p>So if you are indeed concerned about standing out in the crowd, the honors program does help. In addition, if you are proactive with your education, you will get as much or more out of your Ohio St. experience than most people attending top-20 ranked Universities. </p>

<p>Get to know your professors on a personal basis. Find out what their research interests are. If any of them do anything that excites you, try to get involved with their work. If you have your own research ideas, see if any of them are willing to mentor you.</p>

<p>Outside of class, get involved with some of the myriad activities available OSU. Do volunteer work. Tutor college, high school and disadvantaged kids. Volunteer at the medical center. Get involved in student government.</p>

<p>These suggestions are just a few things you can do to make your college days the most positive and memorable experience of your life.</p>

<p>Go for it!</p>

<p>thanks guys for your input. i just visited the campus today and looked at the different honors dorms. my dad is hand delivering the acceptance check tomorrow (he works in columbus). to be quite honest, the size doesn't really intimidate me. i think ohio state is better for me and i am happy with my choice. thanks again! :)</p>

<p>there you go and good luck. Now don't look back get some OSU stuff and get in the mood.</p>

<p>thanks! much to the chagrin of my michigan-rooting father, i will be be fully decked out in buckeye apparel. :D it is my goal to convert him! ;)</p>

<p>Once a wolverine, always a wolverine.</p>

<p>Go Blue!</p>