<p>@Norcalguy: I was indeed a bit afraid that Ithaca is less interesting for graduates than Palo Alto is. However, I often hear that you really don’t have that much time to enjoy the area you are living in. Is graduate considered to be more study intensive (as in: hours put into it) than undergrad (for a non thesis program)?</p>
<p>About the cost issue: it would all depend on this Fulbright Grant. If I get that grant, I’m more or less settled at both of them (I’d expect to get less money from Fulbright if I went to Cornell, since I already receive more). The difference in cost of living shouldn’t matter that much for a year, my parents are willing to pay that. (actually, they said they’d pay Stanford even when I would not get a Fulbright grant, but I refuse having them pay that much for me, it’s not worth it in Europe + I’ve got 3 brothers and that’d be unfair)</p>
<p>Also, out of interest: would anyone here have specific numbers on the difference in cost of living (typical rent, your average meal, …)?</p>
<p>@humanx: fair point, which I admit I had already checked :p. Still, I could see myself getting a season pass for Greek Peak and ski each sunday afternoon (I’d like to improve my technique and tricks, so routine is good), whereas trips to lake Tahoe would probably be rare. But tbh, that’s a side issue. </p>
<p>The main thing i’m afraid of is that I would be turning down a “dream University” because of a grant uncertainty (+ having my girlfriend closer). On the other hand, I have a feeling I am glorifying the “prestigious Stanford in the sunny California” where everyone’s laid back etc. a bit too much. I guess what I would like to hear is that Stanford’s really not all that special, and that Cornell is just as good :p</p>