A relative of mine’s son is literally torn between NU and Georgetown and reached out to me as I have more recent experience with college admissions than him. Being an undergrad engineering major, I couldn’t really help him out too much as he wants to major in govt/poly sci. He got into GU early and right now off the waitlist at NU and so doesn’t have too much time to respond. Apparently the son keeps second guessing himself as his friends and family are advising Gtown for the major, but his heart is with NU, he liked the visit there a lot, felt he could fit in etc… His GC said if he’s sticking with poly sci then Gtown, but if he changes, NU as it has more programs which are stronger. She said both are great, can’t go wrong with either but my relative says he’s not thinking that way. He feels like if he chooses one, the other one will turn out better. let me know any thoughts, thanks in advance.
Northwestern’s Political Science is strong. It is actually ranked significantly higher than Georgetown’s. If he wants to study Political Science theory, and then go on to Law School, I do not see how Georgetown is any better than Northwestern.
On the other hand, if he wants to study Government or international relations and work in the State Department on foreign affairs, then Georgetown is hard to beat.
It really boils down to what he wants, academically and professionally.
I’d recommend Northwestern from an objective standpoint. Given that’s where his heart is, seems like a clear choice. Plus kids often change majors. Unless he felt the D.C. connections would be important – such as if he intended to pursue a career on the Hill – I’d go NU. Go with his heart.
I have family/friends experience with both schools. I would choose Northwestern in a heartbeat. It has stronger academic departments across the board, better facilities, a stronger alumni network, and a five times larger endowment - which means far more money available to provide students with maximum opportunities.
I would consider the two schools to be academic peers. I know people who have had great experiences at both. Assuming cost is not an issue, he should attend the school he prefers (which sounds to me like Northwestern).
I also vote Northwestern; overall better school imo.
Any cost difference>?
no cost difference that I’m aware of.
Northwestern. It has a broader range of very strong programs and is generally considered more elite at the undergraduate level. Both schools are good though
Northwestern is the better school for his intended area of study (political science) and overall. The only reason why your son might pick GU is it may offer better opportunities for internships and networking during the school year, and if he wants to work in DC long-term. However, I would consider fit and academics above this.
Another vote for NU. Not only a better school, it also has the benefit of both small college town and near a big city. I don’t think NU would have any less internship opportunities.