Classic Case: Money vs. Quality of Education

College Search & Selection
1

<p>Okay so here is the deal:</p>

<p>First, I don't know what I want to major in. Past major ideas were Business and Journalism. Second, I received a full-tution scholarship from the University of Pittsburgh. My other option is UNC. I don't know enough about Pitt to a good decision. Also, I'm OOS for UNC and my mom said money shouldn't be considered in my decision. So, should I save and go to Pitt or indulge and go to a school where the education will undoubtedly be better?</p>

<p>Also, anyone know anything about Pitt? Thanks!</p>

2

<p>Bump! Any help would be appreciated!</p>

3

<p>If money is no object, go where you want to go. But it's ridiculous to assume that the education at UNC "will undoubtedly be better" than at Pitt, which is a fine University. I think too many students in this country who get anxious about choosing between colleges on the basis of their quality (usually the result of all the preposterous ranking systems) don't realize that they are suffering from an embarrassment of riches. Many "fourth tier" universities in America would be the pride of a nation elsewhere in the world.</p>

<p>75% of the quality of a college education is what you put into it, not what the college has to offer.</p>

4

<p>UNC is a better school (and in my opinion, has more of a campus feel), but Pitt will still offer a fine education. </p>

<p>If money's not issue, go to whichever you like better.</p>

5

<p>If money is no issue, go to UNC, which is much higher rated that is Pitt, and has an excellent journalism program.</p>

6

<p>UNC is beautiful country and campus. You'll love to hate Duke and the weather is milder. Then again you could become a Steeler fan and write about that. </p>

<p>My pick having been to both,
UNC</p>

7

<p>Thanks for the replies, guys! Also, I'm undecided as far as majors go but I am leaning towards Business or Journalism. Yes, I know...UNC has one of the greatest schools for both. Money vs. Quality</p>

8

<p>The business school at Pitt is terrific, and it is in a great town with plenty of internships. </p>

<p>But your measurement tool isn't the correct one.</p>

<p>Suppose your mom said to you: "Son - you can have the $140k we would spend on UNC for any educational purposes you can think of over the next 6 years if you go to Pitt. You can spend it on an MBA, or a graduate degree in journalism. Or begin a journalism career with five years of volunteer work in Africa. Or you can take 5 trips around the world, writing about it. Or - although it isn't education - you can invest the $140k in your first business."</p>

<p>Now what does the equation look like:</p>

<p>Pitt plus $140k in education vs. UNC. Put this way, the quality equation might look very different.</p>

<p>Try it out, and see what you come up with.</p>