<p>I know that Georgetown University would be the perfect match for me, especially the school of Foreign Service. There are so many opportunities in D.C. for international studies internships in the Department of State and other organizations. Yet.. I can't help but look toward the Ivy League, and the only reason why I want to apply to HYP is the prestige factor. Is anyone else struggling to get out of the prestige trap?</p>
<p>Georgetown isn't some little, no name school! In some areas, it is just as good and even better than the HYP of the world. </p>
<p>I didn't apply to any true <em>great</em> schools even though I had a chance at them. I applied to Smith, Lehigh, and Lafayette(which are all <em>good</em> schools) and after the fact, I think I did it because I just wanted to see if I could get in. Now that I'm in, I realize that I don't really want to attend. It's too much money and I don't think I'd fit in that well. This is a complete 180 from where I was in August. Apply to a variety because if you don't, you'll regret it in April. </p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>screw that ivy league crap</p>
<p>if George town is good, go there, U WILL BENEFIT when u try to find a JOB.</p>
<p>Ivy League ppl can laugh their a55 off on you and lament when they cant find a detter job than u</p>
<p>You are right about the prestige of Ivy league and near-Ivy schools....people will automatically think you're a genius, rich, will get promotions much more easily etc.</p>
<p>I think you should at least try for Ivy and near-Ivies....if you fail, nobody has to know.</p>
<p>Georgetown's an excellent school, but is ranked low because of lack of financial resources, among other reasons. Prestige isn't the most important aspect when considering a college (although I must agree, it does have an impact to a certain degree). If Georgetown's a "match" school academically, and a "fit" in the miscellanous aspects, then go for Georgetown.</p>
<p>A great school should be one that works for you-- one where you feel safe and comfortable, the academics are at the right pace, the people don't bother you. It should offer the programs that you want and the lifestyle you want.
Prestige doesn't mean you'll be happy or do well. It indicates "how smart you are" to other people, but that really has no large impact on your life. Go where YOU want to go. If you are happy and work hard you'll make it no matter what. A happy, educated person will always go farther than an unhappy, educated person who is sick of working their butt off.</p>