<p>I currently attend community college, and I plan to transfer for the fall of 2011. As a result, I dont have too much time to start getting my applications together. But heres the problem: Im having a horrible time coming up with a list of colleges to which I should apply. I always just sort of assumed I would go to Rutgers, and now that it seems like I have more options, I dont really know where to start.</p>
<p>My (first?) endgame goal is to get a PhD in philosophy, preferably with an institution known for having a good PhD program for philosophy. But Im also extremely interested in filmmaking and film criticism, so I would really like to get some experience and learning in this area sooner rather than later. As a result, it seems like I should focus my undergraduate studies on two areas: the filmmaking area and some area that will work toward the PhD in philosophy. Originally, I figured I would just dual major in philosophy and filmmaking, but this is not so clear cut: Ive had numerous philosophy undergraduates recommend I either dual major in mathematics and philosophy or just go straight for mathematics. Either way, however, I need a university which will allow me to major in two contrasting areasmathematics/philosophy and filmmaking. </p>
<p>I originally chose Rutgers because Im on the NJ Stars program and would receive money toward an education at Rutgers. However, Rutgers does not seem to offer a filmmaking program, and I recently discovered that my father can apply the GI Bill to me, so it seems like I have other options finanacially.</p>
<p>Next to Rutgers, the best university for my needs I can think of is NYU. This university has an excellent reputation for postgraduate studies in philosophy, so hopefully this would benefit my B.A. in some way, but it also has a filmmaking program, and from the sounds of it, I could dual major between the two schools. Unfortunately, NYU isnt exactly cheap, and it definitely isnt cheap to live in the city. (I want to live in an apartment rather than on a dorm. The GI Bill provides cash toward an apartment, but only so much.) </p>
<p>NYU sounds like a great choice, but I feel like my attraction to it is sort of arbitrary. On top of that, I have no idea which other colleges to which to apply. Based on this information, which would you guys recommend? Or could you point me toward any resources to help me make this decision? Because right now, I feel like I might as well roll a die to come up with a list. </p>
<p>I should mention that Im trying to stay on the east coast and relatively close to NJ. </p>
<p>My friend also said I should develop a list divided into three categories: safe (sure thing), moderate (slightly hard to get into), and reach (difficult chance of getting in). I have a 4.0 GPA at my community college, so I would hope that I would get into most colleges I apply to, but this idea is probably still worth following.</p>