Hi! I am an incoming freshman as a math/stats major interested in going into some sort of finance/actuarial/data science field, and I was committed to UCLA when Vanderbilt accepted me off the waitlist. As a state school UCLA is cheaper, but it’s also a lot closer to home. As it stands UCLA will probably be around 15k more a year, but may end up being significantly more. Is Vanderbilt so much better to a point that it’s worth the risk, or is it not better at all. I’m just freaking out because I wanted Vanderbilt for so long, and now they got back to me and I’m not sure if it’s worth it (and they’re only giving me two days). Thanks so much!
It starts with the money. Did Vandy give you money? if not, I can’t imagine any scenario where UCLA is $15K+ / year more. Are you in-state for UCLA? Please clarify.
Also: how much debt each option will require?
Sorry I meant 15k less…With my family’s finances Vandys looking to be 50 a year but it could end up being more. As for debt UCLA will probably end up being 50k in debt vs Vandy being 110. I just don’t know if Vandys academic advising, job placement, and prestige are worth it.
$110K in total undergrad debt? No, not worth it- esp given the super alternative.
I’m sorry, b/c I know how hard it is to see a dream that you have had for a long time be so close…and yet so far.
But you are already going to be carrying a bunch of debt for years to come- to double the amount of debt means going from buying an Audi or Lexus to buying a Corvette. You are already getting a great car! And: you achieved your goal- you got into Vanderbilt! take the win, and walk away from the debt.
And when future you is wincing at the college debt payments coming out of your future paycheck- thank yourself that it isn’t for twice the amount!