Do these schools seem like good choices?

Transfer Students
1

<p>Hey folks. Currently, I'm a second semester sophomore at a small-ish SUNY college. After nearly 2 years at this school, I've decided that a transfer is necessary in order for me to keep my mental/physical health up to par. I'm not all that pleased with the department I am majoring in (history), and I think I'd like a university that is a bit more vibrant (arts, urban location, etc.).</p>

<p>My stats aren't thrilling. By the time I put in transfer apps for the Fall 2008 semester, my GPA should be a 3.30-3.40. I've been President of my university's College Democrats chapter since freshman year, and that eats up a lot of my time. I won third prize in the Global and International Studies Program's annual essay contest my freshman year. Just the other week, my English professor asked me if he could use a paper I wrote as research for his upcoming book (I said yes, obviously!). I was an editor of the undergrad. history review in Fall 2007, and will be applying for the same position this coming semester. I may be forgetting some things, but that's the thrust of my college career so far.</p>

<p>Schools I am considering:</p>

<p>-Binghamton---While it has a stellar history program, the desolate campus and isolated area are major turnoffs for me.
-Buffalo---A number of friends attend this university and most seem to like it. Are there any cons you guys can think of?
Ohio State---I'm getting a great vibe from this school, and will do what I can to visit before I apply.
-UMaryland---Same as above.
-American University---Pricier than the aforementioned unis, but the fact that it is in D.C. is a big plus when one considers my hopes for the future (lobbying and the like).
-Syracuse University---Close to my current school, so I guess I wouldn't lose all of my friends in the process of transferring. I've spoken to an admissions counselor here and she told me I have a very good shot of getting in next fall.</p>

<p>So, what other schools should I be considering? Well-known publics is what I'm shooting for because I'm trying to keep cost down. My parents will pay my tuition up to a certain point (probably about $20K), but after that it's up to me. It would be very nice to graduate from college with little or no debt.</p>

<p>Thanks in advance.</p>

2

<p>UMaryland and American seems the best fit of the schools you listed if you are looking for a more urban environment. You will not find much in Buffalo, Syracuse or Binghampton. I went to Syracuse for 2 years and found it very depressing…cold, snow and pretty rural. I transferred to NYU. Best move I could have made. I, too, was looking for more. Did you only want to stay on the east coast?</p>

3

<p>I don’t think I’d go much further west than, say, Illinois. East coast is preferable.</p>

<p>Is NYU CAS a realistic option?</p>

4

<p>Make sure you check the out-of-state costs for the “well known publics” and the policies on achieving in-state status. Because the costs may not be so appealing for you depending on how that all shakes out.</p>

<p>Otherwise, I like the looks of your list. Variety, balance of selectivity it looks like to me. There are a lot of strengths in your profile too.</p>

<p>Good luck.</p>

5

<p>I don’t know what NYU is looking for as far as gpa for transfers. You could call the school and inquire. I believe it is a tough school to get into, but you never know unless you try. My S is looking into transferring to New Paltz. It may not be an urban environment, but it’s a cool place and fun to be at. He is coming from an urban environment that he is not too thrilled with in some ways…Miami.</p>

6

<p>As I understand it, Ohio State takes a pretty large number of transfer students. Do I have a good shot at getting in?</p>

7

<p>President of College Democrats?</p>

<p>Woo hoo! Hillary 08! (Off topic I know..^^;)</p>

<p>Anyway, Ohio State does take a large number…so you should have a shot.</p>