<p>I've read earlier Cornell vs William and Mary threads, but wondered if any parents in particular or recent grads can speak to the career value of a W&M degree in the Northeast. My D is between both and is interested in biology, though not really locked into that. However we got zero financial aid from either - and Cornell's $16K/year more. Paying for W&M would be a stretch but doable without too much of a loan burden, but paying for Cornell would mean D carrying a hefty bag of loans post-graduation. In this economy, and with graduate school becoming so required in so many fields - not sure that is really a smart idea.</p>
<p>So - is an Ivy League degree really worth the debt for a bio major who's not sure of her career path (not really pre-med focused at this time), who felt something special at W&M, but who worries that her W&M degree will be less portable back here in the Northeast.</p>
<p>thank you all in advance for words of wisdom.</p>
<p>Are you sure Cornell is $16K more? Did you do the calculation correctly? Did your daughter get work-study aid? Are you in-state for W&M?</p>
<p>Only you can answer the question about the financial trade-off. But, Cornell is really excellent for biology. They recently infused $400 million into their life sciences programs. New building for biology. But, W&M is one of the best public colleges in the country.</p>
<p>Hi CollegeHelp - unfortunately the $16K dfifferential is accurate, our EFC calculation varied wildly among colleges accepting my D. On Cornell we took the (extensive) time to appeal it but have not yet heard back although they asked questions about missing forms etc so I know someone at least received it. No we are not instate to either Cornell or WM, we are in MA where cost of living is high and we also have extensive medical bills that are what screws up our EFC calucation. Thanks for posting though. I’m sure both schools are great, just weighing whether the added $$ is really ‘worth it.’</p>
<p>W&M is VERY well respected nationwide. If she liked W&M better, (esp winter weather) and the cost is better , then you have a very easy decision. W&M is filled with students who turned down Ivy League. Best of luck.</p>