<p>So I'm obviously getting down to the deadline and I can't make up my mind. I've pretty much narrowed it to these four, but was hoping I could get some other points of view on them. The three American schools will cost roughly the same (ignoring the additional costs of NYC) where as McGill would cost quite a bit less (about $20k per year), and maybe I could complete it in three years. However, I can afford wherever I go somehow. I would really prefer an urban campus (Tufts doesn't make the cut for that, but there's still a lot I like about it). They're all a bit far from home (except for Tufts which is about a forty minute drive at the most). I plan on majoring in cognitive science with a focus on the computer science region of it (and maybe tacking on HCI at CMU or human factors at Tufts) but I have a really broad range of interests and creative inclinations (one of the reasons I applied to NYU Gallatin). Thus, a school with strong English, film, engineering, and urbanism studies that I could dabble in would be great. Any input would be fantastic so I can hurry up and make this decision!</p>
<p>No idea if you’re going to get this in time, but I had to choose between Tufts, CMU, and Mcgill, and ended up going to Mcgill. The completion in three years is really based on the amount of AP credits you had. I did the math and came into McGill with 30 credits. Unfortunately, in the process, I had to sacrifice my ability to take a lot of the creative type classes (I am really into comp sci, graphic design and such), due to the fact that I’m pushing to graduate in 3 years. </p>
<p>I’d really recommend CMU if you have some creative inclinations because if I’m correct they have a really flexible with the GE credits, at least with the engineering department. I have a friend who’s there currently and she’s taking some whacky classes. Also, they’re probably academically the best for what you’re looking for as a major. Unfortunately, it seems that they have a lot more coursework than Mcgill? I might be totally wrong but that’s how I feel after visiting/being in both schools. </p>
<p>In comparison, Mcgill tends to be a lot more specific than what I see in US schools (at least what I can see as a Science student), but there’s still some flexibility with in taking classes outside your faculty. It’s definitely the most urban, along with NYU. Carnegie Mellon I feel is a little more isolated than these two schools. </p>
<p>The main thing is probably weighing the costs of each school. If you want to save money, go to Mcgill. It’s a great school with a good standing internationally and also within the US, and living costs there are cheaper than NYU. I was under the impression that CMU is this little island of its own, compared to McGill where most people live off campus after their first year and commute in. </p>
<p>I don’t know if this helps, but you’re welcome to ask me more questions if you haven’t made a decision yet!</p>
<p>Thanks so much, I’m (still) trying decide where to go. I’ve pretty much dropped CMU from the list. I’m from New England so I’m used to harsh winters, but how did you find the Montreal winter affected you? And do you think the large McGill classes detract from the academic value? I was also struck by the “personality” of Tufts (though it’s really small and close to home and suburban), so I was wondering why you didn’t choose Tufts.</p>