I recognize that I have two amazing options, so now I don’t know what to do. I could go to UMD for free with the Banneker scholarship or go to Princeton for a manageable cost (I wouldn’t need loans). I live instate and I have mixed feelings about staying in Maryland. I want to major in English and either double major or minor on public policy. I’m hoping to work for a nonprofit in either communications or policy advocacy.I always envisioned myself at a small school, like Princeton, because I think I would do better academically and socially. I’m not a huge partier and I’m more interested in small hangouts with friends. I don’t know if I would fit in with the social scene at UMD, although I do like Honors Humanifies program. Any advice about where to go or any opinion about UMD English program?
How much would you be paying at Princeton and do you have any grad school plans?
@prezbucky Princeton would cost a ltitle more than umd tuition, room, board, and fees for in state, which is feasible for my family. I’m not sure about grad school at the moment, but it’s possible.
It’s a tough call – Princeton is great academically and is among the most undergrad-focused of the elite private universities. And the networking/career opportunities are there for the taking.
If you knew you wanted to continue on to grad school, I’d advise you to save the $100,000+ for grad school, but it’s Princeton and you’re not sure about grad school.
Go to Princeton. More personalized experience and the name carries a lot more weight than Maryland’s.
@nih00 let me preface what I say with Maryland is a fine school. Because it is. However, if you won’t need loans to attend Princeton and the cost is manageable for your parents, this decision is a no-brainer in my opinion. Go to Princeton. No doubt. Especially given that you feel it will be a good fit and you want to work in a nonprofit —the Princeton name will help get your resume looked upon at the top of the pile and get you through the front door for an interview. And having the Princeton degree will help provide you a boost for admission to some graduate school programs if you pursue that in your future. Going to Princeton will also help you if you ever want to work outside of your home state of Md. Princeton has a strong alumni base.
If cost is truly not an issue for all 4 years, then it seems like a degree in English and public policy will cover more weight if it comes from Princeton than from UMD. I do think UMD has an excellent and rising reputation (I went there for 3 degrees and DD will start their next fall), but in those fields if you’ve been accepted by Princeton and can afford it, I think it’s a great opportunity. It also sounds like you’d prefer to go there based on the input you’ve given above. You’ll do well at either college, fortunately!
I did decide to go to Princeton. Thank you all for your input!