<p>I’m currently trying to decide between Boston University and American University for an undergrad in journalism/ international studies (and possibly law school later on). Although they both have good opportunities in big cities I am leading towards American for its more intimate campus feel and smaller student population. Is this stupid when BU is generally ranked overall ranking/ name recognition?</p>
<p>I’m making the same decision between a full ride at BU, a full ride at Vanderbilt and the AU Global Scholars program. Vandy definitely has the “name” edge, but I’ve ultimately come to the decision that the campus “feel” and overall sense you get from the college is more important than straight up US Newsweek ranking. I’m 95% positive I’m turning down almost $180,000 from Vanderbilt and 80k+ at American to go to Boston University because I felt overwhelmingly more comfortable at BU. If the financial packages are the same (a big, game-changing IF), pick the one you just outright like better. Ranking will not help you if you end up disliking the school, and AU’s IR program is one of the top in the country.</p>
<p>thanks, im starting to think it makes alot more sense to look at it that way to. congrats on your scholarships either way- that’s awesome.</p>
<p>Both are good options</p>
<p>Choose the one you like better</p>
<p>AU has a great internship program</p>
<p>D1 is a senior at AU in the School of International Service, and D2 is a first year at BU (CAS). Happily both schools have been great fits for each of them, and I really can’t say anything bad about either university. If one of the schools stands out strongly to you as having the “right” fit and feel, then I would suggest going with your gut (assuming that the finances are workable, of course). That having been said, if fit/feel is a toss-up I would give the edge to American U. since it has a very strong IR program–and, in fact, a whole school within the university devoted to International Studies. Also, the Washington DC location is hard to beat with many internship opportunities during the school year, as well as the summer. </p>
<p>Whatever you decide, good luck to you. :)</p>