<p>I've been offered generous packages at both schools, with about $6,000 per year more in aid from American. My intended major is Business Admin.- although that's a weak tie so far- and I'm not so sure of where I want to go.</p>
<p>I know BC is ranked better, in a better college city, and more nationally known, but I feel like AU would nurture my interests in public speaking and it's also got a better career center.</p>
<p>Any opinions out there? Should I splurge for Boston, will it be worth it?</p>
<p>BC is Jesuit…and a phenomenal school. Nothing wrong with American. Fine school, lovely campus, etc. </p>
<p>But I think BC will be better for you as an undergraduate experience (Division I sports in the ACC), its stellar faculty (mentors) and unbelievably huge and vigorous alumni association (job hunting). </p>
<p>So yes, I think BC is worth it.</p>
<p>I think it is a closer call than many may think. BC is higher ranked, and deservedly so for it is a more well rounded university than AU. AU is very strong in a few areas such as international studies, public affairs, government, and communications. It is reasonably strong in business (The Kogod School is considered by many to be the best in DC). But BC is definately stronger in the sciences and humanities. Social sciences outside of the ones I mentioned are probably a toss-up.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t say that Boston is a better college town. DC and Boston are both great college towns. DC is the capital of a world superpower (and perhaps the only superpower). Boston is the hub of New England but certainly not the world.</p>
<p>Whether the Catholic affiliation of BC is a positive or negative thing is a subjective factor. If you are Catholic, it probably is a positive. If not, it is at best neutral and, for some, a negative factor. AU is nominally Methodist, but I really mean nominally. Except for the seminary next door, and the Methodist church accross the street, you would never know it had a religious affiliation and I am sure there are students who go through 4 years at AU completely ignorant of the fact that it is Methodist. There are far more Jews on campus than Methodists. </p>
<p>If you are into football or hockey, the choice is easy. But ignoring athletics, AU is also a good choice and, since it would be cheaper, I wouldn’t overlook it.</p>