<p>I'm a HS senior trying to decide between an LAC (whose graduates have a very high rate of acceptance into law schools, which is my goal) and our big name state U that has a good rep. also. </p>
<p>Is the "big name" degree worth more out in the real world than a degree from a LAC (political science)...if I end up in a job search fresh out of college instead of immediately going on to law school. </p>
<p>Would a potential employer rather see the University degree?</p>
<p>Depends what LAC...some, like Williams and Amherst, get the top jobs at ridiculously high rates.</p>
<p>I'm in Michigan, and for family reasons I need to stay somewhat close to home. I'm looking at Albion College vs. Michigan State. I'm not interested in UM at all, so i didn't apply there.</p>
<p>If the choice is Albion or Michgan State, I would choose Michigan State for price and employability. Did you consider Kalamazoo college? I think Michgan State has an edge over Kalamazoo too. Why not U Michigan?</p>
<p>I'm considering the James Madison program at Michigan State (public policy, etc.) vs. Political science (pre law focus) at Albion. I visited K college but didn't care for it...just something about it didn't click for me so i didn't apply. No flames please, but UM is just a tad too liberal for me...I'm politically conservative</p>
<p>I'd lean towards Albion myself but I'm biased towards smaller schools for a number of reasons. I think if your plan is to work in Michigan or Illinois after graduation, either Albion or Michigan State will be fine in the minds of most employers.</p>
<p>I like the smaller schools too for educational reasons but I am thinking of the price difference for a Michigan resident and name recognition among employers. Michigan State also has poly sci and pre-law advising (but get in line). I am just thinking "out loud". Ultimately, it is personal taste and finding the best fit for your learning style.</p>
<p>Funny you mention Illinios...I can see myself in Chicago after graduation! But are you saying that if I go too far from MI that maybe the employer wouldn't have heard of Albion? Supposedly they have a great Alumni network...of course I'm getting most of my info from their literature. And from some local alumni. Seems like if you went there you can't say enough about it...but all you hear on here are the very exclusive schools....They are also giving me $$ which will make up most of the difference in tuition. And I like the feeling of the campus. I'd really like to get more info on Albion from unbiased sources.</p>
<p>Between Albion and MSU, you should picj the school that you feel more comfortable in. They are so different, the decision should be an easy one. Academically, both are respected in the region. MSU has a very highly ranked Political Science department. Just remember, if Law school is your aim, maintain a very high GPA and prepare were well for the LSAT when the time comes.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>You guys are a huge help, thanks! I know they are very different, and I'm really having a hard time knowing where I'd be better off...I'm a huge sports fan, but I know I'd do better in a smaller class setting where I can't get away with slacking and being unprepared (or absent!). Does anyone know anything about the James Madison program at Michigan State?</p>
<p>I do not know much about the James Madison program, but here is a brief fact sheet...in case you haven't seen it.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.jmc.msu.edu/quickfacts.asp%5B/url%5D">http://www.jmc.msu.edu/quickfacts.asp</a></p>
<p>U of M is portrayed as being a lot more liberal than it actually is. The alumni tend to be very conservative.</p>
<p>The point is, if Michigan has the programs that interest you, don't reject it out of hand.</p>
<p>UMDAD, it is too late for her/him to apply to Michigan anyway. The point is moot.</p>
<p>You're right - I just like to boost U of M whenever possible.</p>
<p>UMDAD, did CC replace me? I didn't get the memo! LOL Oh well, it was good while it lasted!</p>
<p>No way - I am just a sideline cheerleader for U of M.</p>
<p>It really depends on what sort of a student/person you are. I have often told this story about a family whom we've known for years. Both Mom and Dad are State U grads and very successful, happy with their college experiences, proud of their alma maters. Their first child, an excellent student went to a big state U and has done very well. The tune they were singing was that anyone would be an idiot to spend the big bucks for an unknown LAC if they can get their kid in a good, reputable State U. Their state college, U of I at UC is an excellent value, excellent school. </p>
<p>Well, along came the second child. Well, these folks are intelligent, reasonable people who know their child. And they came to the conclusion that even if he got into U of I, and he just might slip in with some heavy tutoring, he would have difficulty getting out with diploma in hand. The school just was not a fit for him, nor was any large university. He really needed a nurturing environment to get him through 4 years of college, and they found it at Augustana, a small LAC. I think they were absolutiely right. So, that is really a decision you have to make. If the finances are not an issue, and you know that you do better in a personal environment, then Albion would be a better choice. I would recommend an overnight visit to both schools and ask how class registration, professor availability and any of the things that may be important to you are at each school. Where do you fit better, and where are the chances for success better? You need to look deeply and decide. Now with some kids, it just doesn't matter. Either school would be a good fit and then it is just a personal preference. Or a coin toss.</p>
<p>I second the educated opinions of UM. I can't imagine a much better collegiate experience. If you like big, it's collge heaven. MSU is extremely biggg and growing. I don't know much about Albion. UM sharpens a conservatives wits....I promise.</p>
<p>I also agree with the UM sentiments. I would never rule out a place like that, especially if its in state!, for political reasons. Trust me, there will be plenty of conservatives for you to hang out with at a school of that size. You will find them and I think you would love the school. Also, the quality of people you will be around will be a great asset. I guess the point is moot now though.</p>
<p>Wow...you've got me second guessing my decision not to apply to UM. At least I (hopefully) would've at least had the option at this point in tiime...
I did do an overnight and class at Albion, and am doing the same at Michigan State in a couple of weeks. I guess I just have to decide where I am most comfortable. Do I need the Big 10 sports team experience or do I want to go where I can actually participate in my sport, which is another consideration. Thanks for letting me think out loud!</p>