BU or UMD for journalism- Thoughts?!

<p>So i was accepted into the Phillip Merril School of Journalism at UMD and the College of Communications at BU. Wasn’t expecting to get into BU at all, and was set on UMD. Now, I’m not so sure because I hear that BU has a slightly better reputation than UMD. </p>

<p>Some background info:

  • I live in Northern NJ
  • Money IS a factor, but with the financial aid I got from BU, the cost actually comes out to be cheaper than UMD
  • I live in a suburb, never lived in a city but I periodically go into NYC
  • Journalism major, maybe focusing in digital journalism </p>

<p>Please help! I know in the end I have to make this decision for myself, but what are your opinions about the communications programs at both schools? Thanks!</p>

<p>BU is urban but in a safe section. If you aren’t used to a city it might be tough to warm up to. Their COC is well known and respected. I can’t evaluate UMD but these schools aren’t similar --including student body-- so it’s a matter of liking one more than the other.</p>

<p>BU is in a city, but if you’ve been to NYC than it won’t be a hard adjustment. NYC is a lot crazier than Boston, which is actually a pretty chill city. Plus, if you want to go into ANY aspect of journalism, it’s going to be more advantageous to be in a city-- cities are where the journalism opportunities are.<br>
I’m a COM major, and have to say that when I tell people I’m at BU for COM, they’re pretty impressed. Even as a freshman, I’ve already done stuff with the radio and television station (there’s a myriad of other student publications too, but I just didn’t have time for those). Can’t really evaluate UMD, but BU for COM is a really strong choice. Plus, BU has some really, really impressive journalism-centered study abroad opportunities. I’m trying to decide between Dublin, London and Paris, just to give a few examples. But for sure, in the end it is up to you. Good luck!</p>