I’ve been lucky enough to be accepted into these two great colleges but I’m stuck at which one I should choose. The financial aid for both schools are equal so money is not a consideration.
My major is Political Science at Trinity and International Studies at American University. DC is the obvious best choice location wise but I’m hesitant to go so far - I’m from California. I also have family in San Antonio that I really enjoy being around and I don’t think I’d be homesick there.
I also feel like Trinity is academically superior to American; the students seem to be more interested in their studies. On the other hand, I feel like American would have more experienced professors in politics/international studies just because of its location.
The group for American on Facebook has also made me hesitate going there. I am a moderate Republican and there seems to be a huge liberal presence that is dead set against any Republicans and makes their opinions well known. While I can accept disagreements with my political beliefs, I do not want to be attacked for it for the next four years & I feel like that would make me hate politics.
I also want to go to law school if that makes any difference. Any advice CC members? I’m at a lost here… this is the hardest decision that I’ve ever had to make.
Personal happiness and “fit” is very important to how you will perform academically. Our S is also moderately conservative, and is really enjoying TU. TU also has a hearty study abroad set of options, and a large international student population.
Have you visited AU? That might also help you decide, but “on paper” it sounds like TU.
You will not miss any law school opportunities at either school if you apply yourself and score well on the LSAT.
You also might gain some insight reading comments on the Poli Sci Professors at each school on “Rate My Professors” web site. Take comments with some salt, but still helpful if ratings are consistent.
Good luck!
My daughter was down to these two schools. I think she would have been very happy at either but chose American due to DC. At American, SIS (School of International Service) is a huge department so she only has a student advisor until she’s a sophomore. I think advising is more personalized at Trinity. D has been VERY impressed with the professors in SIS.
D was tripled as a freshman as were most of the Scholar students. I can’t comment on the political differences between the schools but did notice a significant difference in LGBT. At AU the students introduced themselves by stating their name and gender preference during orientation. There is also neutral gender housing. Trinity indicated they don’t have specific housing but would work to maker certain all students are comfortable.
Two great options!!
It sounds like you prefer Trinity.
If it’s affordable, check whether they have a “washington semester”: if so, you’re set! 