Distressed HS Senior, UVa or U of Rochester

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of Virginia
1

<p>I am having the most stressful time trying to choose between these two schools. I know you guys do not need my entire life story, so I'll just list what I think are the most important facts.</p>

<p>I am an Asian American planning on studying Neuroscience or Cognitive Science</p>

<p>University of Rochester</p>

<p>-Total cost of four years (COA - grant only without considering loans which I have to pay back) = 60k
-I am from Rochester so I have a network to get started off of, but I will not get the "college experience."
-Strong premed program, which goes somewhat hand in hand with neuroscience. Also close to the U of R medical school and Strong Memorial Hospital where there is a program to work within those institutions as well.
-No course requirements
-I don't mind the cold winters because I'm used to it.
-I have friends going there from my high school</p>

<p>UVa</p>

<p>-Total cost over four years = 104k (with grant, without loans or work study) (44k more!!)
-My parents say that they should be able to afford the 44k more, but personally, I will be attending grad school/medical school, and saving 44k now means having 44k later.
-I am in the Echols Scholars program which also takes away course requirements, gives me an edge in getting the classes I want, and provides me with support from chosen faculty.
-Stronger in social sciences than in natural sciences, but still top tier in both.
-Beautiful weather with lots of people (3x size)
-"College experience" of being away from home, and gives me more room to grow as a person, not just a student.</p>

<p>I only have 3 more days to decide, all opinions are appreciated!</p>

2

<p>You basically said it; you are looking for a college experience that U of Rochester can’t supply. I would recommend UVA, but I’m a tad biased =P. UVA also has a SUPER reputation in terms of job outlook. Consdering you are also an Echols Scholar, you can literally take whatever classes you want… You enjoy being away from home, and don’t have the problem of large class sizes if you don’t want to deal with it. It could even save you money if you want to graduate early (since you are echols). </p>

<p>Just my two cents =P</p>

3

<p>I’m also biased, but based on your descriptions, it seems like you’re regarding U of R as “it’s okay because” (except for their med school, which is fantastic), whereas you’re regarding UVa as “I want to go here because”. Something to consider. I do love U of R, though – I interned at a lab there for a summer – and I promise you’ll be happy in either place. Make sure that if you do go to U of R you still live in the dorms, because that’s an irreplaceable college experience.</p>

4

<p>Honestly, which one do u like better? And do u like bit 44k better?
Either place is rly good, uva is probably better, but if you work hard it doesn’t matter which school.</p>