Students/Alumni: Is Harvard Worth It?

<p>I have been struggling with this question in the past few days as I prepare to recieve the final slew of admissions decisions. I applied RD to Harvard, and I think I have a decent shot at it. However, my family has no financial need, and will have to fork out the $45k per year. On the other hand, I have been offered a full-ride from Wake Forest University, and probably from my state school as well, where I would be in a specialized Honors program.
That said: Is Harvard experience/prestige really worth the $180,000, assuming I am accepted? Or, would I be just as well off in terms of grad school/ career goals if i save the money and take up the other offers?</p>

<p>I would really appreciate any thoughts/opinions of current students or alumni.</p>

<p>Maybe you should think about this if/when you are actually accepted. This seems like unnecessary stress for you right now.</p>

<p>If your family has no financial need then 45k shouldn't be that hard to fork over. You can always apply for scholarships and take out loans.</p>

<p>let me tell you something that I am sure about...in the short term you might be losing $180,000...however, Harvard is worth billions of dollars...both the reputation and he connections...basically, you have an option of getting anywehre you want as long as you are determined...I know about its reputation in Europe, Asia, Africa...know lota presidents and ministers in foreign countries who are Harvard graduate...</p>

<p>For one thing I'd take the wake offer over any state school unless its UVA, UCLA, UCB, UM or UNC.</p>

<p>
[quote]
Is Harvard Worth It?

[/quote]
</p>

<p>Harvard is worth it.</p>

<p>
[quote]
would I be just as well off in terms of grad school/ career goals if i save the money...

[/quote]
</p>

<p>Quite possibly not.
Anything past Michigan is pushing it.</p>