<p>I am a senior in Pennsylvania and live just outside of Philadelphia. I plan to major in Journalism. I have been accepted to both Temple (with a $3000/year scholarship, could possibly increase) and to Penn State (University Park) with no scholarship or financial aid. After 4 years, I would have about $50,000 of debt if I went to Penn State, and I would have about $30,000 of debt if I went to Temple. I want to work in a major city such as New York or LA after I graduate. I was just wondering, which school is better for my major? Is it worth it to go to Penn State and to have more debt after I graduate? Should I go to Penn State because it is more nationally well-known? Will I have more of an advantage in looking for a job in my major if I go to Penn State? Any responses are greatly appreciated! :)</p>
<p>20k difference is really not that big. Penn State is probably the better choice.</p>
<p>$30K at 6.8% means a $345/month loan payment for 10 years after graduation. $50K means a $575/month loan payment. That’s a $230 difference per month, which is how much I spend in groceries. If you’re on a small income (likely as a fledgling journalist), that $230 does make a difference. You’ll also pay more interest - over the life of the loan, you’ll pay over $8,000 more in interest.</p>
<p>Nevertheless, I think Penn State and Temple are probably equally recognizable in large Northeastern cities. Penn State has the better reputation, though. On the West Coast, you will get a bit more mileage out of Penn State; it has a huge alumni network, too, and Penn State alumni are pretty loyal to their own. It could also be worth it for the experience - Big 10 football, a huge campus with lots to do and probably a better student newspaper (probably more than one).</p>