I am tying to decide whether to attend Furman University or University of Richmond in the fall. I have been accepted to both and Furman has offered me an $18,000 dollar scholarship. I want to go on the pre-med or pre-vet track and attend graduate school after undergrad. I would like to attend a school with great academics, but I also want to be able to have a balanced and enjoyable college experience. I have a little over a 2,100 on the SAT and a 3.5 GPA at one of the highest ranking high schools in the United States (top 15). Richmond is a very expensive university, and while I am lucky enough to be able to attend, money is always something to consider. Would a student of my academic standings be able to keep the grades needed for medical school and enjoy a balanced lifestyle at Richmond? With all of this in mind which University do you think would offer me the best academic and social experience over the next four years?
First, did you visit both schools and did you like both schools (irrespective of name,etc)? Can you envision yourself as a student walking around campus?
If you are seriously thinking of med school, then sit down with your parents and talk about the money, since the scholarship is a key part of your question. What is the final bottom line of how much you and your family will pay to both schools? Do they cost the same before the scholarship kicks in? Are there any strings to the scholarship (you need to maintain a certain grade point)? If you take the more expensive school, does this mean more med school debt in your future?
I did visit both of the schools and loved both campuses and the kids there. This has been whats made it so hard to choose at this point in the college process. My parents have told me that they don’t want me to worry about money at this point. They are willing and able to do what it takes to put me through both undergrad and med school. The schools do not cost the same before the scholarship. Richmond is more expensive. My scholarship at Furman is not attached to any grade point average. I will talk again with my parents to make sure that they are okay with both options. However, putting the money part of the equation out of sight for a moment, which school would you consider to be the better one for a balanced student.
Well that last question is not at all a financial aid question and maybe you will get more action on it if you posted to the college search and selection board. I am not very familiar with these colleges myself. Usually saving 18k per is significant for families but usually parents don’t pay for your medical school either so maybe it isn’t a factor as your parents are seeming to tell you.
Also please note there are forums for individual colleges.
Furman, for sure. Their rates into med, or vet school are crazy good. Apparently very very rigorous curriculum but student do exceptionally well. Easy decision for you. Wish it was the same for me.