Stanford or UNC-- 50k+ a year or 10k.

Colleges and Universities A-Z Stanford University
1

<p>So, i've been accepted to both universities, and i've pretty much narrowed my choices down to these two. I've always wanted to go to Stanford, and I know it would be the best place to go to major in Computer Science (what I was planning.) However, after long talks with financial aid counselors, I will be getting little to nothing in terms of aid this year. My parents and I could probably manage this year at that tuition (going to be incredibly difficult, but possible), but there is no way we can keep paying this amount for the next 3 years. My father lost his job, so his severance package is fading, as is his unemployment compensation, and my mom's salary will be reduced due to company difficulties. The head of financial aid at Stanford said that they would "be there for us" if we presented a more serious need (i.e. no more severance package etc), but the question is, should we trust them? How are we sure that that means we will actually get grants instead of avenues for loans etc.? My parents are uncomfortable committing to sending me there, if they aren't sure we will get enough aid in my last 3 years. The last thing i want to have to do is transfer out during sophomore year due to lack of funds.</p>

<p>I've been offered some attractive deals at UNC like 5000 in scholarship (on top of instate tuition), guaranteed acceptance into the B-school (what my 2nd choice in major would be, but I know i would enjoy working with computers more) and honors program. However i've lived in Chapel hill for over 10 years, and I would really like to experience a new place, since Chapel Hill has gotten pretty lame. I know UNC is a pretty great school, but it is just incredibly hard letting an opportunity like Stanford slip away. </p>

<p>So, do you guys think it is worth taking the risk at Stanford? even if it means being, possibly, nearly 100k in debt after undergraduate years? I'd like to believe the financial aid rep at Stanford, but my parents might not be willing to put their life's work on the line for something that is not 100%.</p>

2

<p>I know the decision is a tough one, but if I were you, I’d feel very uncomfortable putting my parents in such a spot. I’d feel horribly guilty if I knew that my parents were put into thousands and thousands of dollars of debt if better financial aid isn’t offered in future years. Unless you get something in writing, I wouldn’t suggest you put yourself at such a risk.</p>

3

<p>Honestly, UNC is an unbelievable opportunity that probably isn’t worse than Stanford by 40k per year. Given the financial difficulties of your family, I would probably go the almost risk-free route and go to UNC. The top students there are comparable in quality to the Stanford kids anyway.</p>