<p>I am going to be majoring in IR and minoring in either East Asian or French studies. I know Emory has a better name, ranking, and curriculum (supposedly), but looking at IR and the internship opportunities in DC, does that really make a difference? I love that Emory has a big campus just the overall feel, but I feel that Ill connect with a more liberal and politically active student body. In your opinion how do the two schools compare?</p>
<p>American is certainly more politically active, but both are very liberal (However, yes, DC will offer wonderful opportunities that are right at your doorstep). Also, Emory has the diversity/cultural thing going on that creates an interesting environment. Instead of Emory students being geared more toward standard forms of activism, it’s more like getting involved in initiatives. Many students are involved in programs that focus on social justice for example. In addition, keep in mind that we have things like the Tibetan Monks that study here and the sort. In some senses, just being at Emory is good for an IR/IS major. In addition, the strides in things such as global health and the like can easily result in unforeseen opportunities that go well beyond your ideas of political activism. The Global Health Case Competition is a great networking oppurtunity for example (and you don’t have to be exclusively interested in the healthcare side of things to participate. In fact, if you aren’t and have a different perspective and more of a multi-faceted interest, it’s likely an even better experience). As for curriculum, I’m not sure. Have you taken a look at our curriculum and some of the oppurtunities within the IS/PolSci dept. for yourself. Did you see anything interesting or different from what you may get at American? </p>
<p>Anyway, what I would do is consider how important getting your standard DC type internship is and if you could take advantage of Emory’s programming (which would also allow you to and set you up for a DC internship) to have either a comparable or more unique experience. Just go check out some of the initiatives/fellowships and programs Emory offers for undergrads that are interested in this field and see if it is satisfactory. I mean, you say you already like the feel of the place. Now just check out the programming to see if it can convince you whether or not it’s worth giving up DC.</p>
<p>*note: Also consider study abroad opps. I’m sure both will do well there, but I think you should consider such an option as nearly as important if not more than a D.C. internship.</p>
<p>If you decide to change your major, would you still consider American?</p>
<p>Also, note that American has one of the highest average net prices of any university in the US. While it’s a good school, and great in a number of policy, IR, and communication studies majors, its need based aid typically doesn’t match Emory’s. However, if you’re full pay and have good stats, American might cost less than Emory owing to increased likelihood of merit.</p>
<p>OP, I have a son who graduated from Emory with a double degree in Middle Eastern studies and Linguistics, and one who graduated from American with a degree in international business/marketing.</p>
<p>I answered your question in the American University forum.</p>
<p>Please feel free to contact me if I can be of any help to you.</p>