Tough choice: USC or UW? (Journalism)

I was accepted into both University of Southern California Annenberg and University of Washington Honors Program.

My top choice is USC, which is obviously the better communication/journalism school. My journalism teacher has recommended USC over UW, as multiple of his past students have admitted the UW Daily was a worse paper than our high school paper (we’re ranked 10th in the nation). Also, I have the perception that most communications majors at the UW are viewed as party-ers. I’d rather attend a school where this stereotype does not exist.

Here’s the downside: it would cost about $16,000 more to attend USC. I have appealed for more gift aid, but it is not guaranteed.

Another of my concerns about USC is the difficulty of transferring to other schools. I read somewhere that the average college student changes their major four times before graduating! I’m worried USC would not offer the mobility that UW would. In the case I don’t stick with journalism, I’d like other accessible options.

However, in the end, I think I’d end up being more successful at USC because of the plethora of internships and other opportunities. And of course, the sun, beautiful campus, and endless activities are inviting factors as well. I just need to make sure that the upsides outweigh the financial burden.

Ahhh I’m such an indecisive person! I’d love for any advice or information that would help me in choosing between these two schools.

Thank you!!

boost

$16,000 more per year, or $16,000 more over 4 years?

Per year. They also gave me loans and work study but I added those costs to the $16,000. I’ve applied for more gift aid, but I’m not sure if they will accept my request. @GnocchiB