<p>First of all I totally disagree with the notion that if you go to grad school undergrad doesn’t matter. Your undergrad school will supply your best friends, your business/ social network, and it gives you insight into things you’d never be exposed to otherwise. Some of the smartest kids in my class went full ride to my local state school and without hesitation in my experience they are doing less well than the kids who went to top schools, in my opinion due to guidance and exposure. The only exception is medicine, which you can get in from almost anywhere. </p>
<p>If you look at the top grad programs, an exponential number greater are from top schools. So if you can go to a top school. I highly recommend it. 200K is a lot, but in my experience a lifetime of friendships, contacts and inroads into the fast track are worth it.</p>
<p>As for Chicago, I was stuck in a similar boat. Columbia (which has similarities to Chicago) was the best school I got into but I realized it wasn’t a good fit in high school. I gave it a shot, but applied as a transfer and got in everywhere I applied (including 2 Ivies). I had great choices, I felt like a kid in a candy store unlike in high school where I reluctantly went to Columbia. Best decision I’ve EVER made.</p>