<p>Marlins,
I have a son at UCF. He’s a second year student, although he’s technically a jr because of all his AP credit. He’s part of the Burnett Honors College, getting a BA in Economics with a politcal science minor. He’s lived two years in The Towers (first year in Tower 3, honors), and he’ll be moving off-campus this coming year. The honors college has been a wonderful experience for him. He’s not “particularly” a joiner – so he doesn’t partake of all that he could, in terms of the Honors Congress, etc – however, he’s found the advising and classes to be stellar. So far he’s completed all the lower level honors requirements, and he’s started the upper level requirements this semester. In fact, his honors class is one of his favorites. Our D is in your situation; she was also accepted at UF and UCF. Frankly, her decision to attend UF was much more difficult than we expected it to be a couple of years ago. Hands down the honors college at UCF beat the honors program at UF. I’m sure someone will quantify a reason why it shouldn’t, but for us … with this experience and in our attending honors Friday at UF, etc., we were more impressed with the UCF honors college. However, UCF does not have a chemical engineering dept, which is what she wants to major in, and there are some intrinsic pluses for her going away to school (we live local to UCF) that make UF her decision. She just turned down her Pegasus Gold scholarship, as well as an honors scholarship … and we did find that difficult when UF’s offered nothing in terms of money. And, let’s face it … in this economic climate, that was difficult to do. Thankfull, she’ll probably have a corporate NM scholarship that’ll go towards UF, so that’ll help. </p>
<p>As far as your stats: totally understand about not making UF’s honors program. DD was in the same situation you are with her SAT. She had a 1440/1600, which in previoius years would have been sufficient, but when they added writing she was 20 points short. Luckily, for her, she has a 35 ACT, so that solved her problem. As far as UCF’s honors program, your stats definitely make you a viable candidate. Hopefully, you hear something soon. If you haven’t been invited to join, I’d request an application. UCF’s honors college is worth it. </p>
<p>So, you’ve got a decision to make … one which none of us can really help you make other than suggest that you look at all kinds of things in your pro/con list … (how gilmore girls, I know :)) Anyway, look at everything: academics, distance to home, ease of transporation, money, campus visits and feelings for you … I’m sure you’ll make the best decision for you. Then … don’t look back! Enjoy it. :)</p>
<p>zebes</p>
I’m hoping UCF isn’t so strict about the scores and accepts me for the honors college.</p>