<p>I'm deciding between Berkeley and Illinois (in state). I would be majoring in pre-med at both schools, but if I go to Illinois, I would be majoring in engineering. If I go to Berkeley, I would have to take a loan to cover the difference between in-state and out of state (25kish /year). I would much prefer to go to Berkeley, since I would have more fun there, but I am fine with either school. I was wondering if it was worth it to take the loan (how easy it is to pay for it, etc), and how much debt the average student leaves college with.</p>
<p>Any input is appreciated.</p>
<p>100,000 - too much money for fun - especially if you are going to medical school.</p>
<p>do you know if it’s any harder to get into a good med school from illinois compared to berkeley?</p>
<p>No, but that’s not the point. I am paying full fare for my daughter. I would never let her graduate with 100,000 loan. Did you do research before you applied to U. IL?</p>
<p>Do not borrow 100K to go to Berkeley. It isn’t worth it, particularly in these times when CA public schools are being hit with major budget issues. Go online and run the figure 100 thousand with a student loan calculator. When you see what the monthly payment would be you will be shocked. Student loans are not forgivable via bankruptcy.</p>
<p>Go to UIUC. UIUC is the #1 in the US for certain specialties of Engineering, it is a bangin’ Engineering school. And for $100k cheaper? UIUC!!!</p>