<p>I received a $15000/year Liberal Arts Scholarship from Emory and heard Friday that I'm a Monroe Scholar at W&M.</p>
<p>As a prospective biology major, would I be absolutely crazy for turning down Emory? The Monroe Scholar program is more honorary than financial, but since W&M is less expensive than Emory anyway, I'd be paying about the same amount at either school. (I likely don't qualify for need-based financial aid.) I like Emory and realize its biology program is top-notch; however, I've never been able to see myself there as much as I can at W&M. I like the environment and the more (in my opinion) laid-back appeal, and I've really just always loved the school.</p>
<p>I know I should go with my gut feeling, but I want some reassurance before I make such a big decision.</p>
<p>William and Mary-hands down. Emory is a great school, but the history, level of instruction and difficulty getting into W & M makes this, to me and easy decision. Having worked as a teacher with medical students, I can tel you the schools that seem to turn out the best people to deliver compassionate care are those schools that educate the whole person. To me,William and Mary has that type of community and feel. Good luck in your decision.</p>
<p>There’s nothing crazy about turning down Emory for W&M. Go with your gut (about where you feel better). Plus I think there are perks to being a Monroe Scholar beyond the money, if i recall correctly.</p>
<p>Classes tend to be smaller at Emory, but it appears that the academic difference is not enough to sway you away from a college that you really love, W&M.</p>
<p>Congratulations to you for having wound up with such a can’t-lose choice. Both are excellent schools, and since the cost is about the same, why not go where you think you’ll be happiest? Either school will provide a great education.</p>
<p>Two of my ds have attended W&M, so I’d just point out that OOS tuition has been known to rise sharply. As a nominally state-sponsored school (VA provided something like 13 percent of last year’s annual budget), W&M has really had to scramble financially in the past decade. They’ve got excellent leadership in President Taylor Reveley, but they face unique challenges as a public school striving to provide an elite-level education. I guess I’m saying that you should expect some hefty tuition hikes along the way. Our family would say that W&M is well worth the price - but it’s good to be prepared.
There are perks beyond the financial (freshman dorm, preferred registration for incoming freshmen, special lecture series) - there’s almost nothing in the way of financial, though. The Monroe Scholarship provides $3K for one summer of study or volunteer work - nothing toward tuition or other expenses at school, however. It’s a great honor, kph2011 - hope you’ll find something great to explore! :)</p>