<p>Please. Feel free. My dad and I actually share this name-I'm an incoming freshman there and will answer all and any of your questions.</p>
<p>Symphonymom....
Just received my son's FA bill and was pleasantly suprised!<br>
In reference to the 5 yr. dual degree program, my son will be receiving a fine education while receiving FA for the full 5 yrs. I realize that his award may change from year to year based on a change in income/assets but one's income typically doesn't change dramitically form year to year. Assuming this, his FA award shouldn't vary too terribly much. I doubt seriously that our COL increase will keep up with the price increases @ NU. </p>
<p>During the auditioning process, with both my s & d, at various insitutions, we have found that FA is available to a student irregardless of whether they offer merit aid or not. It boils down to how badly the institution wants him/her. This has been our experience. Others, may have different ones.</p>
<p>Other factors to consider: What is the geographic location of the student? What are the needs of the university? How many slots are open? What is the budget for the department? Is the student a minority?.... the list goes on. In reviewing your posts, it is apparent that you are on the right track as where to apply. You will find that the situation will vary among institutions. Whether FA is needed or not, the decion process is basically the same. How badly do they want/need you?
Good luck!</p>
<p>bkb1958 (and dad): Thanks again! It's great to get the info on FA as well...I'm sure we'll have more questions as we progress through the process. If S has any advice regarding lessons or auditions, that's always appreciated. My son is right now researching various teaches (any trumpet players in the family?) Northwestern has two of the top teachers in the country..and he's looking for kids who are taking from them. Then I guess we start arranging lessons...I don't want to schedule too many during any given vacation week...and yet we have a lot of schools to research (he's mostly interested in dual degree programs but will probably audition for conservatories as well)
I truly appreciate having you guys willing to answer our questions...which I'm sure will be ongoing!
Congratulations on NU and best of luck during freshman year!! Please let us know how it's going!</p>
<p>I know double degree is definitely doable in 5 years at Northwestern because one of my classmates did the music/chem engineering. ChemE was arguably the most demanding major at Northwestern.</p>