<p>If you were talking about Rutgers College versus UNC (yes I know NJ and not NY) with the same financial implications it would be much harder for me to tell you to assume the added debt that UNC will bring, but we are not. Binghamton is what it is, a fair-to-good mid-line school in the NY state system....it's certainly not even a Stonybrook which has a far better reputation for example.</p>
<p>NUGrad really laid it on the line very accurately. Recruiters at Binghamton are not looking for the same level people that they are at UNC. UNC grads compete very favorably with the Ivies for spots in the big investment banking houses in New York which can't even be said for a number of other "major" public universities let alone a school like Binghamton. If a school's placement (career development) office can't give you real numbers and facts about recruitment, placement, avg starting salaries etc it's because they really don't want you to see what they are...for obvious reasons.</p>
<p>Binghamton has ZERO recognition outside New York and even there is certainly not considered a top instate school. To pass up the chance to attend one of the top 5 publics with a top business school and have the cache and recognition that comes with your OOS admission which ALL employers and grad and professional schools understand would be a mistake.</p>
<p>Your AP credits can allow you to graduate sooner which will potentially reduce costs and you can always find a job to help with costs as well. I believe that there are scholarships available for juniors and seniors based on achievement that you could apply for. </p>
<p>Additionally the type and quality of internships you will be exposed to at UNC will further enhance your career opportunities globally. My guess is that if the difference in costs over four years is the $55K you mention, you will make that up fairly quickly in the starting salary and first few years' earning difference between the two schools.</p>
<p>I wish you well with your decision. One last thought; have you approached Fin Aid Dept about your situation? Did you even apply for aid? Good luck.</p>