<p>I was accepted at both Penn State and American University and I dont know which one to pick. I want to double major in political science and economics if i go to Penn State and American has the perfect interdisciplinary major for me (Communications, Legal Institutions, Economics and Govt). I have always wanted to be in DC but American is more money than Penn State. Also, Penn State is ranked much better than American is. Which one should i pick? Why?</p>
<p>bump......</p>
<p>Well, American is better in the governmental areas; Penn State is well-rounded. If you're looking for internships and a hands-on experience -- then look to American. If you're looking for a learning, classroom experience, I would say go to PSU. However, American's rankings I believe are going up -- so don't worry about that.</p>
<p>How much of a gap is it? I mean, $$</p>
<p>Look at it this way. The environments are similar yet very different. American is in D.C. (a very nice part of it - the residential area). If you want to study anything politically related go to American because your opportunities for what you want to do will be better at American. Yes American might be ranked lower but remember that your employer will not look at your rank of the school necessarily but will look at what you have done in the classroom as well as outside in your internships , etc.. which lucky you will be numerous at American.</p>
<p>Penn State is a large state university located in central PA. The school is ranked so high because of the strength of some of its programs such as business and engineering etc... Remember if you want to do government related things I think being located in the nation's capital versus in farm country would be better and I'm sure everyone else would think the same.</p>
<p>Penn State's average SAT scores if you look at it are I believe a 1,000 something to a 1280 or 190. Meanwhile American's average SAT scores are an 1150-1330 approximately. Penn State meanwhile is ranked at number 50 while American is at a 100 something. Remember the rankings are deceiving in some ways...</p>
<p>the money gap is about 8,000</p>