<p>Hey, I'm choosing between these two schools and am very stuck...</p>
<p>Some information about myself:
NYC student, I live about 10 blocks from Barnard so it's verrrry close to home.
I'm definitely majoring in economics, but I'm also interested in studying some language and political science. When I grow up [ <em>ahhh</em> ] I want to be involved in policy work, whether it's working at a Think Tank or as a staffer in DC. I think it would be great to jump right into academia as well.</p>
<p>As for what I wanted in a college.. to be honest I'm a bit of a snob and so prestige was important to me, I want to get into a top grad school most likely for economics, I understand the importance of the liberal arts but I really want to plunge into economics.
As for student and campus life, I really am not sure which I like better. NYC is great for fun and internships/jobs; I know what my life would be like at Barnard; I love the campus; I don't mind the girls school aspect. WM was also really nice, but a little too quaint. I'm a little afraid that I'll find the people at WM are going to be a lot different than the people I've grown up with and that I might have to change myself to fit in. I'm not very worried about those at St.A.</p>
<p>In the end, I know that I'll adjust socially, and what's most important to me is the quality of education, and preparedness for grad school/PHD.</p>
<p>For those who aren't familiar, the WM program is a joint program with St. Andrews in Scotland. I would spend two years in the states and two years in Scotland (my first one at WM, second at St A, and I get to choose where to study my third and fourth years). The program is supposed to offer the breadth of study at WM and depth at St.A. I would graduate with a BA International Honours Joint Degree - Economics from both schools. If anyone's interested here is a link describing the Econ Joint Degree <a href="https://www.wm.edu/as/undergraduate/curriculum/special/standrews/programs/economics/index.php">https://www.wm.edu/as/undergraduate/curriculum/special/standrews/programs/economics/index.php</a></p>
<p>I know I'm very lucky to have this choice, but man... I'm having a really tough time wrapping my head around this decision. Thanks in advance for any advice/information!!!!</p>