<p>I think that there is a marginal difference - that is, Dartmouth is worth more than U of Richmond - but the question is how much more. </p>
<p>If, as you say, the cost differential is about $10K a year and your parents are willing to pay it, then I think that Dartmouth definitely would be worth it. If the difference was $25K a year and your parents needed to borrow the full amount… then I’d be leaning the other way.</p>
<p>I’d add that in my mind, the difference is only warranted IF you do well in college. I did pay extra (but not full cost) for my d. to attend an elite college – and she graduated with honors – so I have no doubt that whatever I paid was worth it. Her summa cum laude degree from a prestigious college is certainly valuable in getting employment, and I’m sure she will be able to get into just about any graduate program she wants when she is ready to go back to school for an advanced degree. </p>
<p>But I don’t think she would be in the same position with a weak GPA – there’s no particular advantage to a student who muddles through and comes out with a C average. So part of the cost/benefit analysis requires a realistic self-appraisal. Dartmouth will OFFER you more in terms of prestige and the quality of its academic offerings – will you be able to take advantage of what they offer – especially considering the fact that you will be actively involved in your sport. If by “overall experience” you are thinking more in terms of ambiance and social life than academics… you might think a little harder about how much of your parents’ money should be spent on the college “experience”.</p>