I’m currently trying to decide what college I should go to. I limited it down to only two: CLU or St. Olaf.
Although they are both Lutheran Colleges I am not looking for a religious college experience.
There are several reasons (both pro and con) making this decision hard for me.
CLU:
It would cost about 10-15k cheaper to go here but my parents told me not to worry about it. Yet I still feel guilty.
I live in Nor. Cal., so CLU is far enough that I can be away from my family and live my own life, but close enough that I could visit relatively frequently.
I love the location. Thousand Oaks is near LA, Santa Barbara, the beach, etc. perfect for day trips. Also since it’s not a party school, I can party with nearby schools.
The dorms are so nice and looks like their own apartments!!
My best friend will be going there and I’d love to room with her. Plus I know people at CLU and in LA so I could maintain in person friendships.
St. Olaf:
SOC is much better in terms of academics - the main purpose of college.
I am very interested in the conversation programs at SOC.
It is near the twin cities and next to Carleton College - which I could maybe transfer to if I wanted.
The dorms look small and old. Also they aren’t suite style and they share a common bathroom for the floor.
It’s very far from home and would not be possible to visit my family.
I’ve never lived in the Minnesota climate and I’m excited but a bit worried.
I have no friends near by. They don’t party. Will I have a social life?
It will cost more to attend.
I like small and personal schools so both are good in that respect.
Neither are bad academically but SOC is far superior.
I plan to major in Biology and either become a biomedical engineer work in the medical field.
My family and I are leaning towards SOC since it’s better academically but as you can tell I have my worries.
Any advice??