<p>I was accepted to GW's Elliot School and to JHU, where I'd study international studies.
I don't think either school gave me money, so GW is 5K more expensive.
Where should I go? Which is better?
I really need help!</p>
<p>You’ve asked this so many times already. Visit the schools and get first hand knowledge. In my opinion, JHU is loads more selective and more renowned (especially in IR due to the behemoth SAIS - as a result, this carries over to the undergraduate school). This will result in more academically accomplished classmates that will drive and inspire you. I’m not even sure why you are weighing the options (the schools are in different leagues academically based on admissions). You’re pretty fortunate to have gotten in with all things considered. Don’t squander this opportunity, especially if finances aren’t a concern. Assuming you take advantage of your opportunities and connections afforded to you at Hopkins by your professors, you will have more options coming out of JHU. You won’t have trouble finding a job in DC (some of my graduated IR friends are either working for a foreign policy think tank or non-profit in DC. A couple others are researching or teaching abroad on a fulbright. Others are doing consulting or working for the NSA).</p>
<p>Thank you! That was quite definitive.</p>
<p>I agree with what Blah said. My son got his BA in international studies at JHU and was hired by a DC think tank for a job that required a MA. They told him that the only make exceptions for Hopkins’ trained BA’s. He worked for 4 years and then went on to a top PhD program–based largely on the recommendations of Hopkins faculty. </p>
<p>The Elliott School is a fine place but, really, there is no comparison.</p>