UCLA vs. Northwestern

<p>I've been accepted into several colleges (Berkeley, Emory, Barnard etc.) but I've narrowed it down to Northwestern and UCLA. I'd be out-of-state for both. I'd like to major in Biology (medical), and hopefully in Statistics.</p>

<p>I got a full tuition merit scholarship to UCLA, which is a big reason why it's attractive. Northwestern would cost more than double that of UCLA, and I have two younger siblings who will also apply to college in the next couple of years. My parents say it's ultimately my choice, but I'm reluctant to put that burden on them. The main reason why I threw out Berkeley and Emory were because they gave me little to no aid.</p>

<p>Also, I'd like to go to medical school (not fully committed to the idea yet though) and that'd also be a lot of money. I'm not sure whether it's worth it to spend so much on undergrad at Northwestern. Please help! I've visited Northwestern and loved it, and will be visiting UCLA this week. </p>

<p>Also, if anyone could help me with this question: I had to decline financial aid at UCLA to receive all of the full tuition scholarship because it exceeded my financial need. My sister will be going to college next year - does this mean they will not consider the amount my parents are paying for me if I go to UCLA when my sister applies for financial aid?</p>

<p>Any help would be greatly appreciated!</p>

<p>I would say take the full tuition at UCLA. You would not have debt, which is great for med school. Plus UCLA has so many opportunities for pre-med. Northwestern is a fantastic school, but I would save the money you would have to pay for med school.</p>

<p>Go to UCLA. It is an excellent school and with free tuition. This is really a no brainer if you ask me. Best of luck!</p>

<p>Thanks for the replies! I am leaning towards UCLA, but I don’t want to put anything in stone before I visit. I feel for me, the main decision is whether or not I decide to go to med school or not. Northwestern would probably be worth it if there is no grad school involved.</p>