<p>Hello again parents. Some of you might still remember me as the kid who couldn't decide between Brown, Rice, and UPenn. I picked Brown and refused Rice and UPenn. And I thought it was settled, until UPenn came back with a full ride offer to challenge Brown's financial aid package. Now, I'm forced, and for the first time by my family as well, to reconsider UPenn. I'm more confused, indecisive, and desperate than ever for some advice. I like Brown more than UPenn. But I'd be paying more for Brown also. Please help me.</p>
<p>certainly talk to Brown...
Then add up the numbers and think about the debt you will or will not have. Is that important to you?</p>
<p>As hard as it is to believe -- you will be happy at either place, or unhappy for reasons you cannot predict (i.e. room mate, an inspiring teacher, a special friend) </p>
<p>So if money is important to you and your family, go to UPenn.</p>
<p>I filed an appeal to Brown and am waiting for their response. However, not familiar with that procedure, I don't know if it'll work. It seems like both schools are competitive with each other, but any minute now, one of them will look closely at my profile and says, "Well, he's so not worth it. We're quitting."</p>
<p>You know if you feel Brown has a program that is so superior in your area of interest, than you should perhaps stick with Brown. If the programs are comparable and if future debt and your parent's finances are a concern, you should go to U Penn. </p>
<p>My son had a choice between Brown, U Michigan and McGill. He had actually decided Brown was smaller than he wanted, so he decided against it. He had a slight preference for Michigan (probably due to the sports), but then selected McGill in part due to the far smaller price tag. </p>
<p>Today he cannot imagine being anywhere other than McGill. </p>
<p>You are in a win-win situation.</p>
<p>Altho both are great schoools, I think there is somewhat of a difference in "feel" between them, Brown being a bit more "granola", "tree hugger", Penn being a bit more pre-professional. (my daughter went to Brown and firmly believes it was heaven-on-earth.) Still, only you (and your family) can weigh these factors against the financial difference. Good luck in making your decision.</p>
<p>Thank you, parents, for your advice. I chose Brown over UPenn and am very happy with this decision. Brown made a compromise with me concerning my appeal, so the financial situation is somewhat settled. I'm excited about the fall already...</p>
<p>Tien, congratulations! I am thrilled Brown compromised with you!</p>