<p>Hello! I'm a student majoring in business at a community college in Oregon (my home state.) I will be ready to transfer soon and currently have a 3.7 GPA. I've been considering universities and I really think I want to go to University of Maryland. University of Oregon would be the college I go to if I stay in-state.</p>
<p>UO is really the only decent school here. BUT it's geared more towards liberal arts. People usually major in things like English, philosophy, arts, journalism, etc. I could tolerate being there but I don't think I will be very happy. My family has also lived in Oregon forever and UO seems like the automatic next step to everyone. This probably sounds silly, but I just can't shake this feeling that I'm going to be stuck here if I choose UO. I've always wanted to move far away, travel, see different things, and I eventually want live abroad. </p>
<p>UMD is a much better school, especially for business. I visited and loved it. I would have to take out 25-30k in loans finish there, but I'm really not too worried about it. I would also love to live on the east coast after college.</p>
<p>It's probably obvious that I have my heart set on University of Maryland. I'm just wondering if it's a stupid idea when I could graduate with hardly any debt at UO. My gut is telling me it's worth it because UMD is a way better school than UO, a better option for my career, what I want to do with my life, etc. Opinions?</p>
<p>Not a stupid idea if you have your hearts et on it. UMD has a terrific business school and is close to DC and eastern corridor, which will help with jobs. Find out from UMD admissions office about student placement (not just anecdotes, but see if they have some stats – a business school should have that).</p>
<p>There are many advantages in choosing UMDCP that I could list. However, only you can decide whether or not you are willing and able to take on the greater debt. If you can manage it, I personally think it’s worth it because there are unquestionably unique opportunities available at Maryland. (Disclaimer: I am an alum and mother of a terp, so I am a bit of a cheerleader…)</p>
<p>One thing to consider is that in order to graduate with a degree from Maryland, you have to take a certain number of credits there…the 25-30k figure you stated you would need in loans only covers two semesters, and there is a maximum number of credits you can take per semester. So, look into that aspect to make sure your estimation of cost is accurate.</p>
<p>I think the fact that you are looking at so many different angles of how this decision would impact your future is evidence that you will be successful at whichever school you attend.</p>