<p>Currently, I am an undergraduate student at the University at Albany - SUNY. I am an accounting major who has just completed my first semester as a junior. Being that there are only 3 semesters left (and time flies), I've already started to consider where I will pursue a master's degree in order to qualify for the CPA exam. I am a resident of the state of New York.</p>
<p>The University of Illinois - Urbana-Chamgain has attracted my interest for many reasons:
1. My grandfather attended
2. It has a highly ranked accounting program
3. A prestigious name (employer more likely to select?)
4. The overall idea of attending; it's part of the Big 10, its prestige, etc.
5. High passing rate for the CPA exam</p>
<p>Again: I am a resident of New York, so I would be charged OOS tuition. I do not receive financial aid from UAlbany, and I am not so sure UIUC would give me any either (I'm not aware of their financial aid leniency). My question: Is the University of Illinois - UC worth it?</p>
<p>As an accounting major, I can't see a difference in the material that I'd learn between any university because of GAAP; I mean, a university isn't going to teach you rules conflicting with GAAP. UAlbany is AACSB accredited, and it certainly is challenging, so I don't feel like I'm not being prepared thoroughly enough for a career. So why not just pursue my master's there, right?</p>
<p>But why do people choose universities that are more expensive, higher loan debt, etc? There must be some benefit in choosing the more expensive option. Or is it really just the power to say "oh yeah, I went to (fill in prestigious school here)" ? How do the benefits weigh against the debt?</p>
<p>I know of two people who both attended UAlbany, majoring in accounting, and they have been incredibly successful. I know, sounds like I should just go to UAlbany, but should I really just not consider elsewhere? </p>
<p>Keep in mind:
1. I commute to UAlbany and my parents are able to pay my tuition/books, so I will have no loan debt after my undergrad
2. I do not plan on staying in New York, and I feel like an employer in another state won't be familiar with UAlbany, and they may choose the person with the bigger school name</p>
<p>ANY HELP IS APPRECIATED!:)</p>