<p>any insights to the pro's and con's of these schools:</p>
<p>College of Charleston
Penn State- University Park
James Madison</p>
<p>any help would be appreciated!</p>
<p>Penn State is one of the favorite schools around. It 's a big, state school with something for everyone, reasonably priced, lots of fun, not too far north, enough out of staters to give it some pep, great atmosphere. Definitely a favorite among schools of its categories. But size is one of its detriments for those who need a smaller school. James Madision may fit that category. Not as well know, but a bit "gentler", kids love this school too. Good value even for out of staters, gorgeous campus, nice students, good slate of academics. College of Charleston is one of my personal favorites. Bargain price, a beautiful city school in the south with some good course selection, nice atmosphere, rising rep.</p>
<p>how do you think a "northern" kid would fit in at a "southern" school like Charleston?</p>
<p>I think being at such a Southern school would be interesting and enriching. He wouldn't be the total odd duck out as a yankee, because there is such a steady annual stream of NY and NJ kids that come down to VA and the Carolinas for college.</p>
<p>I think Charleston is quite different from University of South Carolina, for instance. You do need to visit it. It is a charming city, and the school has a lovely artistic air to it. It is not a traditional flagship southern college which USCarolina is . Now I do like USCarolina for what it is as well, and think that it too is a great admissions bargain, and if Penn State is the atmosphere you like, USCarolina is probably more of a consideration. But Charleston is an unusual school, excellent in my opinion and on its way up the scales.</p>