Help! Only 8 days.

College Search & Selection
1

<p>The deadline for college decisions is quickly approaching...and I'm having a hard time making my decision. </p>

<p>I plan to major in International Relations (focus in International Development and maybe Africa). I'm basically deciding between Tulane, Ole Miss (Croft Institute), and Scripps College. Money is a big concern.</p>

<p>I've lived in New Orleans most of my life, and I have always wanted to go to an out-of-state college. I like Tulane - I just wish it weren't practically in my backyard. I have a full tuition scholarship to Tulane.</p>

<p>Ole Miss is out-of-state, and the Croft Institute has a wonderful program. I've visited twice, however, and did not feel like I fit in well with the student body. I'm looking for diversity and lots of open-mindedness, and I was struck by how deeply conservative the school seemed. I also have a good amount of scholarships to Ole Miss.</p>

<p>If money weren't a concern, Scripps would be my first choice. I've visited twice and absolutely loved it there. I could picture myself there easily, and...I miss it so much. I got the half-tuition scholarship to Scripps, but there is still a large financial gap. This school is the least affordable, and I might have to personally take out about 15k worth of loans per year. Factoring in graduate school after undergrad, that number is incredibly daunting, and I don't know if I could justify it considering the better packages at other colleges. (Also, that number might increase as my years there pass.)</p>

<p>Advice would be greatly appreciated. (I might need some sense talked into me at this point!) Also, can anyone rank the IR programs at these schools as viewed by employers and grad schools?</p>

<p>Thank you.</p>

2

<p>Also, could y'all please advise on the positives/negatives of going to my first choice but accumulating lots of debt? Is it worth it?</p>

3

<p>I would go to Tulane then study abroad as much as you can. You get out of your backyard, get the best education, and save money. Plus it would work towards your job goal.</p>

<p>Scripps would be excellent though.</p>

4

<p>I agree with DSC. It seems like the best option. Take advantage of any exchange and abroad programs, maybe even graduate early. The whole "going away" thing wears off real fast. It sounds glamorous when you are in high school, but by Thanksgiving, that is gone and it seems more inconvenient than anything else.</p>

5

<p>Yep, if you're taking a vote, count me in for Tulane, as well. Especially if you live on campus (not at home), you'll still be away from home, and will likely stay on campus most of the time....but it will be easy to go back for a hug now and then, and it's an excellent school. And, I'm w/ DSC.....take advantage of study abroad (or if there is a college/exchange program for spending a semester elsewhere in the U.S.) good luck.</p>

6

<p>IMO...go with your gut...Scripps has a great program, and you may be able to negotiate a better fin.aid packet...you may find it worth the loans, but only you will know whether its worth it. Try closing your eyes...quiet your thoughts...now, what campus are you walking across after class?</p>