Hey everyone, I’m pretty torn between these two schools right now. Each have some pretty big pros and cons and I’m looking for some advice on what people think. I’ll lay out a chart as well as more in-depth explanations
At Northeastern, I’d have a combined major in International Affairs and PolySci. It’s definitely a good school academically, but I’ve heard that the College of Social Science and Humanities isn’t as well funded as the others. I really like Boston as well. (Boston and DC are about the same distance from where I live, I’d be fine in either city, although Boston weather is a bit rougher, so I’d give the edge to DC). The biggest downside is that it costs about $55,000/year, although I have appealed and am waiting to hear back. Both are theoretically affordable since I don’t have any other siblings in college and my family is decently well off, but I don’t want to stress my parents moneywise. Co-ops are also a super cool feature and I would still get to study abroad for at least a semester (hopefully an international co-op as well). They also mean that I’d be likely to get a job which is nice. Finally, I have one of my best friends I’ve known since middle school going, and another super good friend quite possibly going.
At American, I’d be majoring in International Affairs. Additionally, I was accepted to the Sakura Scholars program, which means I’d be spending two years at Ritsumeikan in Kyoto, Japan. It’s not a traditional college experience, but it’s something that seems really cool. I’ve been to Japan before and know some Japanese, but I’m a bit worried about fitting in since there’s only about 10 others in the program, and I’m not sure if I’d make any friends at Ritsumeikan since it’s mostly Japanese students. American would cost me $30,000/year. The campus is nice and I’m super into politics so DC is a plus. But, I’ve heard bad things about the food quality and dorms, and I’m not sure if the school is as great academically (if any of you could comment on the food/dorm quality it’d be much appreciated). I have one friend possibly going to American and my girlfriend might be in DC as well. I’m not sure if I’d be able to get a job coming out of college at American though, even with the Sakura Scholars program.
Northeastern:
Pros:
Academically stronger school
Co-ops basically guarantee a job after college
One of my best friends going, another one possibly going
Would probably get to skip a semester due to APs (would get a second study abroad or not have to take classes over a summer or something)
Cons:
College of Social Sciences not valued very highly
Expensive- almost twice the price
Likely won’t have as many opportunities abroad
American:
Pros:
Sakura Scholars Program- Fresh and Senior year in DC, Soph and Junior in Kyoto
Cheaper
Campus and location
Politically-minded student body
Might have a friend at the school and girlfriend in the area
Cons:
Dorms
Cafeteria
Job Opportunities after college might be limited
Limited group of friends while abroad
Thanks for the help!