Full Tuition to USC vs. Stanford vs. Duke

College Search & Selection
1

<p>I like almost every college I've ever visited, but I've somehow narrowed my list to these three schools: USC, Stanford, and Duke. I'm interested in studying International Relations, Languages, and Film. Where will I receive the best education and atmosphere? I would like to attend a school where academics are important to every student, but everyone is not holed up in the library all the time.</p>

<p>My family does not qualify for financial aid and my parents assured me that they had enough saved up for me to go to whichever school I prefer; nevertheless, I know that 50K a year will put a strain on our finances. I received the Trustee Scholarship to USC, which is a huge incentive, but would I'm still uneasy about turning down Stanford and Duke.</p>

<p>Does anyone have any insight on comparing these 3 schools?</p>

2

<p>Of the three, USC has the best film school and there are also far more opportunities for film internships.</p>

3

<p>I would narrow that down to just Stanford and USC, especially if you live in/near California. Stanford DEFINITELY has a 1-up over duke.</p>

4

<p>I’m from the east coast, but I’m looking for a different atmosphere in college -> appeal of California.</p>

5

<p>Isn’t USC the number one film school in the country?</p>

6

<p>Why would you even think about Duke?</p>

7

<p>I’d be pursuing a minor in film at USC or Stanford and a certificate in the Center for Documentary Studies at Duke.</p>

8

<p>ClaroQSi, you have wonderful options and cannot go wrong!</p>

<p>My daughter is currently at USC and minoring in the School of Cinematic Arts. It is a wonderfully flexible minor allowing you to choose your own concentration. As a SCA minor you will have access to nearly all classes in SCA, and can take far more than the 20 units required for your minor if you have room in your schedule. Hollywood is only a few miles away and writers, directors, cinematographers, actors, etc. are regular guests in many of the SCA classes.</p>

<p>If you have also applied to and been accepted into Thematic Option, USC looks even better for you. TO is a great program. Good luck in your decision!</p>

9

<p>This is a very difficult decision. Stanford isn’t worth $200K more than USC. Prudence would dictate going to USC, though it might be worth it for your parents to spend the money and send you to Stanford. Ask them.</p>

10

<p>Hard choice. Stanford is a fantastic school. But it’s possible that if your parents have money saved up for you you could use it for grad school, too. I would certainly be VERY tempted by USC’s offer. Personally, I think I would take that offer–it’s a great school. Definitely I would not choose Duke.</p>

11

<p>USC without a doubt. </p>

<p>Reasons:
A) You’re receiving money.
B) It’s only the best school for Film in the States
C) It’s in Southern California</p>

<p>I think those are three valid reasons.</p>

<p>Go Trojans!</p>

12

<p>I would have to agree with the USC advocates and I LOVE Stanford, but given your interest in film and IR and Languages USC offers a great opportunity to be in one of the most diverse cities in the world, exposed to a myriad of cultures and languages, ideas etc. Downtown, East Los Angeles (the largest Latino community in the US) and Venice Beach are within 15-30 minutes away which offer their own particular experiences. I think it sounds ideal. Oh and saving 200K isn’t so bad either :)</p>

13

<p>Normally it would be Stanford over USC</p>

<p>but</p>

<ol>
<li>Financial Aid to USC</li>
<li>USC’s ranking in film</li>
</ol>

<p>even the odds</p>

<ol>
<li>USC</li>
<li>Stanford</li>
<li>Duke</li>
</ol>

14

<p>Thanks for everyone’s input! I’ve pretty much ruled Duke off the list at this point but I’m still trying to decide between Stanford and USC!</p>

15

<p>Sorry to hijack the thread but I’m in the same position except between NYU full ride and Duke.</p>

16

<p>Bamboy, normally I’m not a huge fan of NYU, but getting a free ride for a school of roughly the same quality as Duke certainly would get my attention.</p>

17

<p>USC without hesitation.</p>

18

<p>Duke is some kind of community college in NC I think. Don’t even consider it.</p>