FBLsMom:
You will get a great education at any of these schools. Allow money to be a driver, but not the only driver. In reading about your wants, likes, dislikes and goals, here’s what comes to mind.
Go with your gut, balanced with finance.
Eliminate 6,7 and 8 on your list. Very good schools (2 of which my high school senior is considering), but the others on your list have much higher reputations for the depth and breadth of the education they offer.
I have never visited UChicago or Northwestern but they are top ranked schools. Consider their location and size in forming your decision and what’s important to you.
My husband is a Georgetown Alumni, my oldest son is currently at Northeastern. They are both great schools and, in reading what’s important to you about location, size, social culture, etc, it sounds like either of these could be winners for you.
UF has been increasing its ranking (another one my high school senior is considering), but dig a little. I have been reading posts from people in their business school. Reading that many of the business classes are on- line, especially the first 2 years. I have not yet called to inquire about this, but I’ve read enough parent posts that it has me concerned. Big party school, and it doesn’t provide the urban scene you prefer.
Aside from UF, how would you propose OP pay for these schools? ‘Going with your gut’ is not an option when you can’t pay the invoice.
OP, looks like UF is your best option. You can pay for it with your $5,500 in scholarships and $5,500 freshman year direct student loan. The others will require too much debt, and UF>FSU for business.