<p>my son is having a really hard time deciding. he likes being in DC and knows GWU has “bigger name” or at least in his mind. He’s interested in Environmental Studies combined w/Policy or maybe Pre-law track. Loved Northeastern’s co-op program but will freeze his a-- off in Boston after living in Africa his whole life. He’s an international student and we will be living thousands of miles away in West Africa. Got no financial aid to speak of but loans, except for a half-tuition scholarship for four years at a place in western Florida called Eckerd College, which has great enviro science but no ambiance in a small locked-in town near St Pete so he’s prob not choosing this. He’s lived all his life in small town, his graduating class is 11 students - total. Housing deposit deadlines are approaching. Any feedback esp between GWU and AU would be much appreciated!thx</p>
<p>GWU is actually more expensive than AU because they do not have a normal meal plan. Students have to purchase meals.</p>
<p>Have you visited either school? American has a traditional quad surrounded by academic buildings. GW is more urban. Do you have a sense of which appeals more?</p>
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<p>GW claims that their $3,400/year freshman dining plan (a declining dollar balance you can use at their on-campus venues and various local restaurants/stores) “is typically sufficient to cover an average eater for the academic year.”</p>
<p>AU’s minimum option for freshmen is 150 “blocks” (they cost about $12/block–maybe a lot of people could get lunch for less than that?) plus $400 declining dollar account, at $2270 per semester. </p>
<p>This being said, I’m very impressed with AU’s system, which offers a range of plans and locales, including the typical “all you care to eat” college dining hall, which GW doesn’t offer. I think for big eaters, AU could be less costly, since they offer an unlimited plan. I don’t really know what I’d spend if I had to buy dinner every night in what seems like, more or less, a food court.</p>
<p>In terms of prestige both GWU and AU are fairly similar. I don’t think your son should base his decision of that. Take a look at the programs both schools offer.</p>
<p>well, he chose AU
didn’t like the hustle and bustle of GWU even though it seems to be a more selective school
talked himself out of the weather offered by NU even though clearly hands down the programs were more and seem better from some reviews
even though GWU has more expanded enviro program, he ultimately went w/where he feels he would be able to have a successful experience and not w/the reputation necessarily
thanks for your help!</p>
<p>My daughter just made her decision today, too! Best wishes to your son.</p>
<p>thanks and congratulations! now we look ahead and celebrate the fact that the decision is made! the biggest thing for me was remaining objective, as I am an AU alum from 1985 and I didn’t want him to choose AU because I went there undergrad…I am certain he didn’t. Because he took so long to decide, I hope he doesn’t get a triple…! what will your daughter study?</p>