<p>So I'm in a bit of a spot. My top three schools I've applied to are Penn, American U and Wake Forest.</p>
<p>Wake Forest and Penn clearly have a better academic reputation than American and I'm honestly in love with Penn. However, I want to become a lobbyist and I've been told that's all about connections as opposed to education. Should I be admitted to all three, I honestly have no clue how to decide.</p>
<p>I do live in the DC metro area, so a summer-time internship is a reality if I don't go to American.</p>
<p>But in all honestly, what's more important, self made connections or relying upon the prestige of your degree and the education you got while earning it?</p>
<p>Penn is my dream school, but I doubt I'll get in. I havent visited Wake, but it seems too Southern for my like. And I've applied to UMD, but it's just so BIG.</p>
<p>I wish there wasnt a drawback to every school I've applied to</p>
<p>Unless you intend on making lobbying your career, I'd go to Penn over American. American may give you more opportunities as a student, but in terms of political networking and law school (which is probably something you are looking into), Penn will serve you best.</p>
<p>I do want to become a lobbyist. No matter where I end up, I'd like to work at Capital Hill for two years at the lowest level, either go to law school or Georgetown's Political Management graduation program and then pursue lobbying....</p>
<p>You can meet and impress political people, and make political connections, anywhere. Any local or state-level political organization has connections, direct or indirect, with Washington. </p>
<p>Therefore, IMO your choice of college will not be the biggest determinant of your career prospects. Wherever you are, simply involve yourself in politics, do well, and you will be fine.</p>
<p>I would visit Wake before you categorize it as too Southern for you. Just like I would visit any school before you jump to a conclusion about the feel.</p>