<p>I'm not completely crazy for turning down Emory and Stern on basis of location and financial aid, right? I got 10k less from these two schools than from American and GW. I figure that grad school matters more and that I could use the 40k I'd save to go toward grad school and possibly be applying to grad school with a better gpa than if I'd gone to Stern or Emory. Also, I'm not sure that I'd really want to live in NYC or Atlanta after graduation and I really like D.C. and the surrounding area. Thanks for your help.</p>
<p>Well, if you really like DC, then I say no, you’re not crazy. But there are definitely other routes to get more money if you REALLY wanted to go to Emory and are only going to DC because of money.</p>
<p>Money isn’t the only reason but it is a factor. I have family in that area as well. I’d also like to go to a good grad school and also want to make sure that I have a great GPA for that, I know I’ll do well no matter where I go. I am a good student but I don’t have a 4.0 (unweighted anyway.)</p>
<p>Not crazy, sounds sensible and you have excellent alternatives. That’s a lot of money, especially in the current climate. But what do you plan to study? Also, try to get into a funded grad program.</p>
<p>1) Emory and especially Stern is worth the extra 40K in your case, IMO
2) Learning in college is different from learning in HS, so the “type” of student you will be is going to change. I personally got higher GPA’s at every level of my education. Others have trouble adjusting and then become great students. Point being, do not assume you will not get a high GPA wherever you go.
3) Of course you’re not crazy, you’re just doing what you think is best for yourself and American and GWU are both fine institutions
4) Good Luck!</p>
<p>I personally think that money and location are to good reasons to pick one school over the other. However, I would use these characteristics when picking between places that seem to have equal pros/cons in your eyes. (Unless it’s just not affordable, then you have to go with price) </p>
<p>I think going to D.C. will be a great and if your not sure then just go with your gut.</p>
<p>“I figure that grad school matters more and that I could use the 40k I’d save to go toward grad school”</p>
<p>Absolutely. 40k is not chump change. </p>
<p>Also, DC is a great area to be in! You can be very happy there!</p>