<p>I was accepted to Fordham (my top choice) and Seton hall (a distant second). At Seton Hall, I received a generous merit scholarship that more than meets my need and would not require me to take out any loans. At Fordham, I also received a scholarship, but to meet my need I would have to take out $5,500 in Stafford loans ($3,000 subsidized, $2,500 unsubsidized) which means that I would graduate with $22,000 in debt.</p>
<p>I've loved Fordham since the first time I set foot on campus. Something just clicked and it's been my dream school for the past three years. It also has a better reputation and a stronger alumni network which I believe would help me get a job after I graduate. I like Seton Hall, but I have a hard time seeing myself there. Other than the price, it's main selling point for me is that I have family living in South Orange, which I think would ease the transition into college life. </p>
<p>I guess my questions are how important it is to LOVE your school vs just liking it? How much of a role does reputation play in finding in a job? And is $22,000 a ridiculous amount of debt for a college graduate. My head says go to Seton Hall but my heart says Fordham. I would love as much feedback as possible.</p>
<p>beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
it is like asking which woman to marry the real cute one , who drinks to much or the less attractive woman who is a doctor, smart and funny.</p>
<p>It depends on the person you are. If you have been consistent in what you believe, then follow your heart. If your likes/wants generally change, then follow your head.</p>
<p>What is your major? Is 22k a feasible amount of debt to pay off with the careers you are looking at, or are you going to be going to grad school/public service, where that 22k will be a lot harder to pay off?</p>
<p>Heart wins! If you are happy, you will be more successful. 22K can be manageable, depending on your major. If every time you look across at NYC from Seton Hall and wish you were at Fordham, well…it might be a sad skyline to gaze at.</p>
<p>I agree, that is a manageable amount of debt, particularly if you are in a field where you would expect to get a job after you graduate. Hopefully you can work in the summer and maybe even eventually (I would not suggest first semester) take on a small on campus job to lessen that debt load. For full disclosure, my S went to Fordham and had a fantastic experience. Good luck.</p>