I am a High School senior that has to choose between Yale and Duke in the next couple of days. I have liked Yale for a long time, but Duke has always been the school I dreamed about attending. The weather, the Jazz scene in Durham, the insane school spirit, and the amazing classes at Duke have all been at the top of my mind during the application process.
I wanted to ED to Duke but was dissuaded by my parents who see it as a good school but not the best and instead was convinced to REA to Yale. I was deferred then accepted.
They are all for Yale, particular because they view it as much more prestigious, and furthermore have said they would rather me go to Vanderbilt (with a scholarship) than Duke. They had said from the beginning of the college process, however, that money would not have to play a part in my decision. (Something I am immensely grateful for.)
Duke has a Global Health major, which is what I want to pursue, and Yale only has a certificate program that you have to apply for in your sophomore year, but there is a chance I change my mind on what I want to study. Regardless of major, I will probably enter as a premed.
I am caught between going to a school I think is good but not the best fit for me to appease my parents and going to the school that I think I like the best. I have never been one to go against my parents, and I am having a hard time doing so now. Which school do you all think I should pick?
If you are premed, I would take the scholarship and go to Vanderbilt. The savings could be applied to med school. Especially given the current state of the economy and future uncertainties, you would be wise to think of financial considerations.
Duke, Yale, and Vandy are all top 20 schools; there is very little to distinguish among them with respect to prestige. As you pointed out, they have somewhat different degree and certification programs and differing campus vibes.
Nashville also has a thriving jazz scene.