VA resident, therefore instate for GMU. In NOVA region - might be able to stay at home for GMU for first semester. Major- Information Systems (Cyber Security) at both schools. Is it worth OOS at Penn State?
They (Penn State) have a great program but I know someone who could not get a job from there. That said, unless you want to live home, you should stay in the dorm - wherever you go. College is about experience!!
Both are fine schools. Obviously, one is still a commuter school but changing quickly and one is one of the country’s largest and most respected institutions.
You should be fine job wise either way. I’d hope you don’t stay home. Yes, you can save $$ - but if you’re going to live home, go to community college instead and save up for your last two years.
Sounds like GMU would be much cheaper than Penn State for you. I would absolutely save the money and go to GMU. Penn State is very expensive OOS.
Can you give an idea of the price difference? I’m guessing $20k per year or more.
Thankyou very much @tsbna44. This is really helpful. Was considering Penn State because of its reputation wrt GMU. Yes, plan to stay on campus after first semester.
Sorry @tsbna44 - forgot to ask - the student was in IST ?
Thankyou so much @STEM2017. Exactly! GMU is about $20k cheaper. They offered me a scholarship too… not much but helps little bit. Was considering Penn State due to its ranking and alumni network.
His major was Cyber Security - don’t know beyond that - but even Harvard has kids that don’t find jobs.
Find the right fit - but if you can’t afford it or have to take loans, it’s rarely worth it - so go to GMU - but go, don’t live home. If you’re going to do that, go to CC instead.
I think people over-estimate the alumni networks. I think, sure they try to help the school - but how many people do you really know called an alum and they said - yes, we’ll only hire that school. It’s like linkedin - I have a person every day linking me in - they aren’t looking to help me. They want me to help them.
So I personally think alumni is overplayed - at least at most schools.