<p>I was wondering if anybody could give some insight for me as I make my final college decision...finally all my decisions are in, and I think it's going to come down to Northeastern University and the University of Richmond- the two schools that gave me the most aid, as well as my favorites out of the acceptances. This is a huge decision for me, because my parents can't really help me pay for college, and so whatever I choose is on me financially. I know that going to a state school or community college would have probably been smarter in terms of saving money, but I'm a very hard worker and have not only pushed myself to be able to get into these schools, but also will continue to push myself in college, and whatever job I get, to pay off these loans. For me it is worth it, because I think I'll thrive in an environment where I'm challenged- also, I really want to get away, and not go to school nearby.
Anyways, both schools have my major- marketing- but I know both are very different. Richmond gave me about 40k more (total) in aid, but with a sibling in college, they said it would go down a lot after two years when he graduates, which could be a problem. Northeastern would obviously cost more, at least at first, but (and correct me if I'm wrong) I believe that the aid they offer you is locked in, meaning it won't decrease during my time there, which would be really nice. They're offering me just above half tuition in both grants and scholarships, so I'd still be taking out a lot, but if it was guaranteed to stay the same, that'd be an added bonus.
Also, I'm kind of leaning towards Northeastern, despite it's larger price tag. I LOVE Boston, and I love the co-op program. I think the atmosphere would be more diverse than Richmond, but I could be wrong. I'm not a huge partier, and I don't want to feel like greek life is dominating, or that I run out of things to do and people to meet. I feel like Boston would give me endless opportunities, for employment, social things, exposure to the arts (which I really love) and people to meet, with all the college students. I don't really know anyone that goes to either school though, so I can't really verify that I'd like one over the other for sure.
So, can anyone give me any insight? I want a creative, stimulating atmosphere, people who are hardworking, a great diversity of students and things to do, etc. Would Northeastern be worth the potentially larger price tag?
Also, any advice for myself and other students worried about taking out large loans?
Thanks.</p>
<p>Is there any way you can talk to Richmond and be able to find out around just how much your financial aid might drop? </p>
<p>Personally I would go with Northeastern. Co-Op is a huge plus (especially for employment), and Boston definitely seems to have more opportunities than Richmond. And I believe you are right about the financial aid being locked in. Even if it’s more $$, at least you don’t have to worry about a sudden tuition jump in the middle of your college years.</p>
<p>I suggest that you contact the financial aid office at Northeastern to clarify what will happen in later years, just have the most accurate information for making your decision. Is it merit aid or need aid that has been offered? Merit aid generally stays the same, assuming you meet a minimum GPA, but need aid will vary with the number of students in college in the family.</p>
<p>Yes, I plan on contacting the financial aid offices at each school this week. Btw, Richmond is all need-based aid, and Northeastern is part scholarship, part need-based aid.</p>