<p>Generally speaking, UMD definitely seems like the more logical choice between the two given your criteria and also the price difference. Over 4 years, the difference in cost between the two schools, which may add up to as much (highest estimate) as 120K and, frankly USC isn’t worth that nearly that much more than UMD. Plus, UMD is a great school with a lot of offerings in many areas. </p>
<p>However, if you really are interested in USC or really get interested in the school over the next year, since you are a rising junior, there are things you could do to make it more equitable with UMD on the price side. USC offers a 1/2 tuition scholarship to students who are National Merit Finalists, so make sure you are prepared and do well on your PSAT this upcoming year. With that, the schools prices will be closer to the same.</p>