<p>I got into georgetown sfs and usc thematic option/ honors college (no merit scholarships surprisingly). I'm leaning towards georgetown because it's the better school for politics, which is what I'm interested in, but I'm not sure if I would really be happy at georgetown. I'm from San Jose and LA/USC seems like a better place for me (good weather, diverse, etc.)</p>
<p>I'm mainly worried that at USC I won't be academically challenged enough. I would appreciate any advice about my decision or either of the schools in general.</p>
<p>We have a LOT of very bright kids (many of the top students including several NMFs) from my kids' HS who attend USC (every year about 20-25+). None have complained it is not sufficiently academically challenging. All have enjoyed their experience at USC in the many fields they choose to study.
My cousin's son just graduated from Georgetown & is in his 1st year at UH medical school. He enjoyed the vibrancy of DC & had some amazing cultural & other opportunities. He was part of a music quartet that performed at hospitals to help improve morale of patients. DC is a great place for politics, of course.<br>
It might be good for you to visit & see how you feel about each school. It is true that going to DC would take you "out of your comfort zone," but that can be a great thing if you decide to let it be. Part of college is growing, but if you don't feel ready for DC or being out of CA, you could always go to USC & then do a term or year at another school or abroad. Another option is going away for grad/pro school, if that's something you're considering.</p>
<p>I was actually worried about the same thing as you...not being challenged enough. But honestly, the fact that you're in TO means that you will be surrounded by highly intelligent people, and you most likely will have smart classmates in other classes as well. I mean, USC is in the top 30, and it is getting better every year because of all the enticing merit scholarships it is offering. From my school, at least 3 people from the top 10 are attending USC this year on presidential/trustee scholarships (#3, #5, and #10 if you were wondering lol) Don't worry too much about the challenge issue, there will be plenty of smart people at USC to keep you on your toes.</p>
<p>The major/politics issue, I can't offer too much advice on though. USC obviously has a lot of internship opportunities, but going to a school in the nation's capital could definitely be a plus as well...</p>
<p>If you want to be sure to be challenged enough, you could get into the school of engineering or business. Those are among the more challenging schools & LOTS of very bright kids there--our business leaders, engineers, docs, etc.</p>
<p>I have the same problem! I got into SFS at georgetown w/ ZERO fin aid :( and USC w/ a trustee scholarship and a merit research scholarship..but i can't decide. I know both are amazing schools and was wondering if undergrad would matter much? I'd major in international relations at both places...HELP!</p>
<p>And in your case (girl/guy who started the thread)....honestly go visit..that's what i'm doing this weekend!!! :) haha hopefully i'll choose USC cuz of the whole money issue haha</p>