College Decision Questions

College Search & Selection
1

<p>I'm researching as much as I possibly can on as many colleges as I could. First, some background: I live in South Jersey and my choices consist of a my dream schools in New York City, one in Pennsylvania, and "backups" in New Jersey. The colleges I'm considering are:
1. Barnard College - I've done a good amount of research on this, and from what I can tell it is a rigorous school affiliated with Columbia University, and the fact that it is an all girls school doesn't literally mean you will only and always be around women. In fact, most people testify that there is a very little amount of classes that are actually all girls, and that many classes are taken in Columbia, with a plethora of other students that attend that university as well. I'm strongly considering attending this school, but the one thing that bothers me is that this school doesn't have a journalism program. I would certainly apply for the graduate school of journalism at columbia, but I can't rely on that possibility, as I realize how selective the school is. Everything seems great about this school except for that major problem. Is it so major, though?
2. Fordham - Another Manhattan university I'm considering. It, unfortunately, doesn't have a journalism program (ugh). I've heard that it has a better college feel than NYU (Which, on another note, I've visited and liked, but the financial aid/life debt horror stories completely turn me off to it. I'm still applying there, though, for I don't know what reason.), and that the fact that it is a Jesuit school doesn't affect what people think of it. I'd like some more information on it, however. But I do know that it is quite expensive. Does it have any major or so that it is known for?
3. CUNY - I'm a little if-y about this college. I couldn't find much forum information about it--only that it has a good graduate journalism program, and an okay undergrad journalism program. Am I misinformed?
4. Penn State University Park - So, obviously, I would absolutely love to go to a New York City college, but as I am unaware of how much financial aid I'd get and such, or since the two out of three new york colleges I'm considering don't have journalism programs, this college is definitely one of my top choices. I visited, and it is obviously notorious for school spirit, football success, and parties. I am not worried about the latter aspect, I know people who stay away from that scene quite easily. The academics and internship opportunities are very high. The only thing I don't like about this school is its isolation...it's five hours away from where I live and to me, it's in the middle of nowhere. Very nice school, but wow...what is there to do?
5. Rutgers University New Brunswick - I'm visiting this school tomorrow, so I don't really have an impression on it...but from what I've heard from pretty much everyone is that generally, it's pretty ugly and dreary. I already don't like the fact that you have to go from campus to campus in a bus, but I don't know. This school is sort of a backup. I've heard it has a somewhat good journalism program. Overall, I'm not too thrilled about this college.
6. - Are there any others worth considering? </p>

<p>My career aspirations are to one day work for a magazine in the city (as far-reaching as that is), and I'm looking for a school that offers a good journalism/English program. I sort of have this vague plan--I would go to an good, not overly expensive undergrad school, and double major in journalism and English, and minor in possibly Art History. Some of the schools that I have on my list don't offer journalism, and I wonder how much of a hinderance that would be. I have so far only visited one, and plan to visit the open houses to the others in the fall, when they're available. I'm just freaking out about which college to attend, there are so many pros and cons about each. Anyways, the reason for this forum is to ask for any tips, any information on any of these colleges in order to help me narrow down my choices. If there is anything about what I'm looking for that would help you guys pull up information, feel free to ask, I want as much breadth of information as possible. Thanks so much, guys!</p>

2

<p>You don’t need to be a journalism major. You will need a course of study that will develop your ability to think critically and write well. Coupling that with experience writing for a school newspaper (or local newspaper) would be completely adequate for finding a job in journalism. The field of journalism is (as I’m sure you’re aware) changing, and versatility is an asset for an aspiring journalist. Look into the opportunities that you’ll have to be exposed to different media platforms, as experience with a variety of platforms will make you a more attractive candidate. </p>

<p>Regarding the specific schools you listed - the only one that I can address is Penn State. I personally have not attended Penn State, but I know MANY current students and alumni (both recent and from many years ago). Not one of them has complained of a lack of activities. Consider the fact that during the school year you’ll be in a town of 50,000 people you age. Of course, there are always sporting events and parties, as you mentioned. Beyond that, Penn State draws many big performers and interesting speakers, if you like that. The only bad things I’ve heard about Penn State are a result of its size - lots of red tape. But your concern is, in my opinion, a non-issue.</p>

3

<p>That concept is actually one that I’ve been mulling over recently. Being that I want to become a journalist, my natural instincts are to think, “Well, I guess I’ll major in journalism!” However, there are so many different paths to finding success in such a broad field. You are most definitely right when you insinuate that well-roundedness combined with experience is more valuable than mere studies. I am unsure, though, of what other major I’d find interesting or relevant. Fashion magazines are where my interests lie, but what other field of study can relate? </p>

<p>Thank you, by the way, for relaying your consoling evidence of Penn State’s lively campus. I suppose with academics and activities, I would hardly notice that I’m so far away from my hometown or New York City. </p>

<p>Speaking of the city, and of experience, my hopes are to land an internship for a magazine–or really, any fashion related internship–in New York City, so would it be wise to just take advantage of my summers to do this? And this is based solely on the assumption that I’d have a chance at getting an internship (hopefully I will!) I have a lot of passion for the field, and am very concerned about receiving the right education while making sure that I have an edge when it finally comes to finding a career. </p>

<p>Does anyone else have any tips, or any information regarding these listed schools? Suggestions for other good schools are appreciated as well. Thanks so much :)</p>

4

<p>Ah, I suppose this doesn’t really matter, but I would also love to travel! Study abroad programs are very much considered. Sorry, just saying!</p>

5

<p><em>Sigh</em> Well, I’ll continue this thread anyways because it at least helps organize my own thoughts. My visit to Rutgers did not impress me, but I’m applying there anyways as a baaack up (I just really cannot imagine myself going there). What I did very recently discover is that there are so many schools out there with outstanding journalism programs. I’m just wondering if anyone out there knows anything about Syracuse University, Northwestern, Boston University, and American University and what their experiences or opinions are with any of these universities. I know there are numerous threads about all of these, but out of these, I wonder what the pros and cons are. I still wish I can just go to a college in New York City, but I’m trying to be more open minded to other city campuses!</p>

<p>I am still considering Fordham and Barnard, along with Penn State University and NYU. I really want a college that has a great internship program and offers multiple opportunities in that respect. I don’t want to go extremely far, but if I am going to go somewhere that’s five hours away, it’d be nice if it were worth it. Thanks to anyone reading/responding! :)</p>

6

<p>You keep bringing up FA. What can your family afford? What are your stats? Unless you have very high stats it’s doubtful you’ll get anything beyond federal FA at Penn State or NYU. Rutgers is at least in-state so the tuition will be lower. If you are not willing to attend there then don’t use that as your safety. A safety is a school you can get into, can afford, and are willing to attend. What about English at TCNJ?</p>

7

<p>I was seriously considering Penn State, and I can honestly say that even though it was isolated, it is its own little town with its own culture. I live in Raleigh and go to NC State which is a smaller school by about 10,000 students but I haven’t ever really felt the need to go off campus to find entertainment. One of the students who gave a tour at Penn State said that they don’t go to concerts, concerts come to them (referring to the Springsteen concert they were hosting at their football stadium that week).</p>

8

<p>Northwestern has one of the top j schools in the country. </p>

<p>If affordability is more important than location, the University of Missouri has one of the top j schools and is reasonably priced, even for OOS students, especially if your stats qualify for merit aid. </p>

<p>Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using CC App</p>

9

<p>I apologize if my intentions seem conflicting or random…“I want a great school…that’s not too expensive.” Alright, I see, a reality check is in order. As for my stats, I suppose I should get that out of the way:</p>

<p>My first SAT score was a 2050 ( 680W, 670M, 660R). I’m taking it again this October and hope to score a bit higher. I’m not taking the ACT, but wonder if it may increase my chances at all. </p>

<p>I have, unfortunately, not taken any AP classes throughout my first three years of high school…but next year I’m taking 5: AP Spanish 5, AP Psychology, AP Physics B, AP Calculus, AP English. I took all honors all of the other years, and somewhat regret not taking AP classes my junior year. I am in the top 5% of my class, and my GPA, weighted, is above a 4.0. </p>

<p>This year, I’m the section editor for Activities for my yearbook and recently came back from a Jostens summer yearbook program. I am, for the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) a Coordinator for the March of Dimes, and last year I was a Committee Head of Membership. For this same club, I attended Regional, State, and National Leadership Conference (in Orlando, Florida–whoop, whoop!), yet only placed in Regionals–Fifth for Business Calculations. In States, I did not place, but had the wonderful opportunity to participate in the many activities and workshops that the Nationals Conference offered. </p>

<p>I have also been in Key Club since my sophomore year, and have accumulated over 150 hours. As for volunteer/community service, I volunteered at a thrift shop, a hospice, and the NJ Food Bank last summer and some of the school year and am currently undergoing “leadership training” for my local church to become a Youth Group Leader. </p>

<p>So, academics aside, the reason I bring up financial aid so often is because of my family’s somewhat …lower income. It may be unwise to be so blunt, but our family together makes around 40k, and my older sister is going to college in Virginia. I understand that we are still paying off our loan to the first college she went to (it’s a long story). My parents are not the most knowledgable when it comes to college, and they tend to be vague when discussing what really, truly, is affordable. I guess I just don’t have too firm a grasp on the concept of realistic aspirations. I am so deeply concerned with the value of the college’s programs, academics, and credentials, that it overshadows the issue of cost. </p>

<p>Thank you, Erin’s Dad, for bringing up this extremely important factor. And TCNJ–does it really have a strong English program? So many colleges to consider!</p>

10

<p>As a rising senior considering majoring in journalism:</p>

<p>Syracuse University is known for journalism, and is relatively near your region. They have the Coronat Scholars program for top applicants (full-tuition I believe).</p>

<p>Northwestern’s magazine journalism is the best in the country, period. It is a very selective school, and is located in a suburb of Chicago. There is a built-in internship program there for magazine journalism students to co-op in the city. It’s got its own beach (Lake Michigan), and it probably has the sort of whether you are used to… only windier :D</p>

<p>University of Missouri (Columbia) calls itself the first and best in journalism, but your peers will be mostly be in-state. With your stats you will qualify as a Journalism Scholar. ([Missouri</a> School of Journalism: The Journalism Scholars and Walter Williams Scholars Programs](<a href=“http://journalism.missouri.edu/undergraduate/scholars.html]Missouri”>Walter Williams Scholars – Missouri School of Journalism)) Your cost may be as little as $21K but I’m basing that off of what I calculated mine to be with a 2200 SAT.</p>

<p>Fordham University is known (by Catholics, at least) as far away as my state of NC. They offer decent scholarships, but I don’t think you qualify. They may be biased, but my parents love the president of the school, Father McShane (he married my aunt and uncle!), and my cousin from NY seems jealous of all her friends at Fordham because they love the school.</p>

<p>University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill) has a great Journalism program, one of the top 3 undergrad in the country. I am very familiar with both the school and the Journalism major, and I have to say I think it is everything it is made out to be - but offers little use or little acceptance (on an academic level) for people wanting to major in the less “investigative” fields of journalism. Although it is great if you would be willing to lean towards PR, or something similar. UNC has the most read student paper in the country according to Princeton Review - it’s published daily and I can attest that it certainly is available all over campus.</p>

<p>As someone who is interested in music journalism, the advice I’ve been given is to focus on the music part - get knowledge in that field, and writing is something you can learn through practice. A degree in English or Humanities or whatever would allow you to explore your interests in fashion might be the most valuable education. Another way to go is photography or business, which are more commonly offered as majors and it may help to have experience in them in the fashion world.</p>

11

<p>Not exactly in NYC, but how about Vassar???.</p>

<p>or Sarah Lawrence</p>

<p>but neither are cheap.</p>

12

<p>BelleNiente, thank you so much for your comprehensive list. Your descriptions are just what I was looking for, and that little end piece of advice is something I’ll definitely take into consideration.</p>

<p>I’ve recently started a QuestBridge application, and although I know there is other threads for it, I’m merely bringing it up in case somebody has thoughts on it. For anyone who doesn’t know, it is a scholarship/college application for students who make less than $60k and show high academic achievement. I’m applying to Northwestern, Vassar, and the University of Virginia on that application (I’m way too under-qualified for any of the Ivies). It’s a lot of work, and I regret starting so late! (It’s due the 30th, and I still have 3 essays and 2 short answers to do). The chances of even getting through as a finalist are slim, but I’m doing it with the hopes for a miracle. I am just unsure what to write my crucial essay on.</p>