<p>For the OP, Wisconsin-Madison is a great option. It is nothing like NYU, but international students love it there because the University has a huge international student population, Madison’s population is very welcoming and highly educated (40% of its residents have graduate degrees) and its Real Estate program is #1 in the nation. Plus, it costs $100k less than NYU or GWU over 4 years. No brainer. </p>
<p>Living in NYC or DC is not important at this stage. As a student living on a budget, you will not be able to benefit from the unique qualities that are unique to them. </p>