Importance of School Reputation?

<p>So I'm looking to transfer away from my current school which is a SUNY(SUNY Old Westbury) The school is okay but ghetto and not reputable at all. I currently have a 3.89 GPA and I'm an honors student(2nd year student) but I want to transfer to a better school(SUNY Binghampton). My main problem is that I'd have to dorm and yes I would love dorming but I'm not sure if I'm willing to spend 10-20k a year on dorming/living expenses a year and this is not including tutition, books and other needs. Most of my credits will be transferable which is good.</p>

<p>But here's my biggest question, does the reputation of the school really matter? I'm motivated/hardworking person, will staying at my current school(which is much worst than the school I want to transfer too) will ruin my chances at getting a good job? I'm just worried that even though I have a high GPA that I won't get the opportunities that a student from a more reputable school will receive. </p>

<p>Any help would be appreciated!</p>

<p>This question is asked a lot and is difficult to answer because there are so many factors to consider. I guess my general (not specific to your situation) answer wolud be: sometimes, but usually only for the first job, after that your work record will be much more important than where you went to school. But it really depends on things like: which 2 schools (for instance, there may be a difference between SUNY OW and Cornell, but not between SUNY OW and Bing), what field you’re in, region of the country you’re working in, etc . </p>

<p>Another thing to consider, sometimes being a big fish in a small pond can lead you to opportunities that you would not have had at a more highly ranked college.</p>

<p>You might want to post this on the Parents forum as there are lots of people with experience and opinions :rolleyes: there; and you might want to expand on your specific situation.</p>

<p>Thanks so much. And yes I did considered the “Big fish in a small pond” which could be beneficial for me. Also, I’m an honors student which may make me more “marketable”.</p>

<p>Thanks for the response though!</p>