<p>So I was just accepted off the Columbia waitlist. I was accepted to and committed to Harvard earlier this year. Now I have the choice: Harvard or Columbia?</p>
<p>The issue is, I live in Cambridge, MA and have my whole life. Harvard is almost literally my backyard. I am desperate to get away from home, and I really really love New York City. That's a point for Columbia.</p>
<p>I don't mind the core curriculum because I love humanities stuff (although I am not happy about the foreign language requirement) and though financial aid is a BIG issue and Harvard has given me a lot, Columbia is not exactly a poor school. If they can come close to Harvard's offer, that'll be what I need. I dont know yet, but hopefully that will work out.</p>
<p>On the other hand, Harvard is <em>Harvard</em>, which I hate saying although it's true. The recognition and the benefits of the name brand are not immaterial. I also genuinely enjoyed the prefrosh weekend: I liked the students, all the extracurricular stuff, the spaces, and the academics. I love to write parody, and where better for that than the Lampoon? I also know the value of the alumni network, which is a big point for Harvard. If I didn't live in Cambridge, I would be thrilled to go.</p>
<p>I don't know as much about columbia as I do about Harvard, which is probably why it seems a little less rosy in comparison. But some outside advice would be great: if both schools seem to fit me, which would you recommend choosing?</p>