Penn State, Purdue, Howard, or Cal Poly SLO!?!? Where should I go???

Colleges and Universities A-Z Howard University
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<p>Hi, so it's that time of the year when I have to choose where I want to go to school. So here's the thing:</p>

<p>Penn State University Park: Accepted in Division of Undergraduate Studies; I have to pay $41,000 a year with very LITTLE and almost USELESS loans (this is pretty tough on my family); I'm from California but the school is relatively close to some relatives in New York (I really like that)</p>

<p>Purdue: I could choose to be waitlisted for College of Engineering for fall 2010 and/or guarantee admission for spring 2011 (this is my fault, I applied too late); in Indiana, not very close to any relatives; about $38,000 a year (they didn't mention any aid); ranked the highest for undergraduate engineering out of all the schools</p>

<p>Howard: Accepted into School of Engineering; Legacy Scholarship: covers tuition and fees all four years (very nice of them); in DC so it is somewhat close to relatives in NY; I would very much like to experience an HBCU</p>

<p>Cal Poly San Luis Obispo: Accepted into School of Engineering; VERY close to home (well, at least compared to other schools...I'm from Los Angeles); B-E-A-utiful campus and city (so I've heard from a lot of people); around $32,000 a year (no aid but it's not too bad)</p>

<p>Where should I go??? They are all such good schools, but I was also thinking about trying to transfer to Cornell for sophomore year. Based on location, reputation, and costs where do you guys think I should go? I'VE GOT 4 WEEKS TO DECIDE!!</p>

<p>Thanks in advance :D</p>

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<p>Good morning.</p>

<p>As you can see each school holds something for you. Only you can figure out what your dealbreakers are. Have you discussed this with your parents? They can help you, especially with financial issues.
There are so many factors, tangible and intangible that go into the decision making.
Cost - true costs aside from tuition and room/board - books, travel, entertainment, incidentals, phone, etc.
Location - quality of life issues, urban (where in the city?) rural (can you get your hair done?)
Nearness of family - It’s a virtual comfort factor, but the number of times my kid has contacted her relatives has been negligible.<br>
School resources - what can the school offer you? How much support will you get as a student, or are you a number?</p>

<p>There are many other factors to consider. Congratulations on your acceptances and select somewhere that you truly believe will make you happy, within the parameters that you have defined.</p>

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<p>I would Howard if I were you! Seems like a pretty good school plus they’re giving you a scholarship for all four years!!</p>