Mind over Heart

So for the past few months I’ve been trying to decide between Fairfield and Quinnipiac. I’ll be studying business at either school, and I’ve been admitted into the QU 3+1 Business Program. Quinnipiac is, on average, about $8,000 less expensive than Fairfield (per year), and I’ll be graduating with a Master’s degree on top of that- therefore entering the workforce much earlier with a lot less debt to pay. On paper, QU is the perfect choice.

However, when I’m on the QU campus, I feel uneasy. I know that if I attend QU, I’ll of course find friends I love and I’ll be happy, but I don’t really feel comfortable on campus. Compared with Fairfield, where I feel completely at ease and excited at the prospect of attending, QU just doesn’t feel right.

I know that if I choose QU, I’ll be left wondering if I missed out on a school that would really make me happy. And if I attend Fairfield, I’ll be left wondering if I missed out on the opportunity of a lifetime to get my Master’s. I guess I’m trying to measure up what my heart wants vs. what my mind wants, and I can’t seem to figure out which is more important. It seems like an impossible decision to me.

Anyone been in a similar situation, or have any insight? I appreciate the help. Thank you in advance.

Both are good schools. My son is at the business school at Fairfield and it is a great program. The new business building opening this Fall is going to be amazing. My son had a hard time choosing but Fairfield is where he felt he could flourish academically and socially. For my son that feeling was very important to him. His plan is to work after graduation hopefully with an employer that will pay for his masters. He will be graduating with no student loans.

Maybe try to figure out what makes you uncomfortable about QU and see if you can research that area further. Maybe your impressions were off or maybe you’ll determine it’s something you can or cannot overcome. I don’t think any school is perfect and you’ll find pros and cons at any school but if you have the right tools and support and a positive attitude you can be successful.

I’m a big proponent of going where you think you’ll be most comfortable and happiest, if it makes sense academically and financially. How impactful is the $8k difference for you and your family? If a student/family has $10 million in wealth, that’s not a big deal. If they have little wealth and modest income, it is a big deal. So consider that.

Putting that aside (easy for me, I’m not paying it), go where you feel most comfortable. But either way, work hard and treat everyone well, and Fairfield or QU will work out great. Good luck!