LMU vs. USD vs. SMU

Student Lounge College Life
1

I have been admitted into LMU, USD, and SMU and I am trying to decide where I wish to attend in the fall.

I am from CA, and I have visited LMU and USD (and i’m visiting SMU at the end of the month). Right now, I am feeling very conflicted, and I don’t have a strong inclination towards any specific school. I want to school to be medium size, and have a collegiate, spirited feel. I feel as though LMU would be a good fit for me, but I am worried it may be too small–I also don’t know how I feel about there being more girls than guys that attend the school. I know that SMU is very spirited and gives you the typical college experience, but I don’t know that I would want to be that far from home. Being in Texas would be a big change, but I think it could also be interesting and fun. I know Dallas has a great nightlife and the various frats throw parties, but I am also worried that SMU may feel too big and the people there might be too snobby and rich (based on stereotypes). USD has a gorgeous campus, but I don’t know much else about their social environment. Another fear I have with LMU is the fact that it’s mostly house parties and there’s not a designated frat row and whatnot. I have not brought up the education as much because I know the education is amazing at each school, and I am excited to take advantage of that wherever I go.

Does anyone have any insights to share??? I am stressed for decisions on May 1.

I am also considering SDSU, but it is so different than those three so I didn’t include it. However, insights about SDSU are also welcome!

and…I’m also considering Chapman, although it seemed rather small and I didn’t love the area (which is like those 3, but I didn’t love it–I would mostly consider it for the scholarship they gave me)

Thank you in advance!

any and all feedback or opinions are appreciated

2

SDSU seems to be a clear winner in these comparisons. It has a large social scene, it has a collegiate feel, and it is close to home.

3

Are they equal cost-wise?

4

Public: SDSU (COA = $30K) is a Cal State school (with a great football program, so lots of rah rah)

Privates:
LMU (COA = $68K), SMU (COA = $77K), USD (COA = $67K), Chapman (COA = $75K)

What is your major, and how do each of these stack up?

5

I’m planning on studying psychology, but I may change to business–I’m not 100% sure yet. My only worry is that SDSU may be too big and too much of a party school.

6

wow, I’ve never seen the prices next to each other like this–the expensive cost is starting to set in!

7

Does anyone have any insight about LMU vs. USD?

8

Go back to the money for a minute: are all these schools affordable?

9

Fortunately, yes. My parents are willing to pay, but it is difficult for me to justify going to a school that expensive that doesn’t have as big a name and reputation as other private schools.

My parents told me not to worry too much about money and more my happiness, and we will figure that part out after.