<p>I have less than a week left to decide where I will be attending college and all I can say is that I'm no closer to a decision than I was 3 months ago. First, finances: I can attend Miami for 17k a year, UNC for 19, and ND and Vandy for about 27. </p>
<p>I would be a Foote Fellow at Miami, which would allow me to skip most of the general education requirements and let me double major without overloading on credits. </p>
<p>When originally doing my applications, I was not even really considering Notre Dame. However, I am petrified that my 30-year-old-self will regret not going to ND if I do not attend. I will not be able to double major here (which is something I do want to do). However, I am only considering it due to its prestige and alumni network. </p>
<p>I am not much of a southern person, so though I liked Vanderbilt, I really cannot see myself fitting in there. I also did not really like UNC when I visited earlier in the year, but they did offer me a place in their honors college.</p>
<p>So as you can tell, I am desperate. I am torn between what I want to do and what I think I should do. I am from Jersey but I am definitely a warm weather person. Taking into account the cost of attendance of each school listed above, and my brief opinions of each, what do you guys think is best?</p>
<p>If you didn’t see yourself going to Vandy, I would not attend there. College is a lot more than just academics; when you pick a college, the environment is really important. Same with UNC: if you didn’t really like it, don’t go there. </p>
<p>Are you planning on going to graduate school? if so, you could always go to a prestigious graduate school like Notre Dame and go to Miami for undergrad. Any huge school like Miami would have a good alumni system; although Notre Dame’s probably a bit better. While importance of prestige can be an issue for some, if you work hard enough at Miami and distinguish yourself, that will show too. Money can be an issue and the difference of 10,000 can be a burden depending on how much your family can afford or how much debt you feel comfortable taking on.</p>
<p>Have you visited ND? How did you like it vs how much you liked Miami?</p>
<p>I can tell you, it is a great school with great academics. Because of the great weather there is a lot going on on campus. Classes, at least for my son were small. (Usually 20 or so. I was 60). </p>
<p>Foote Fellow is a great perk. Son was able to double major and have a minor as well as complete Honor’s college requirements. Interesting Foote fellow seminars and trips too. </p>
<p>The best value option you have here is UNC which is probably “better” than Miami and only slightly more expensive. However, if double majoring is that important to you, pick Miami. You cant go wrong here. All these colleges are excellent. Congrats.</p>
<p>@Bigdaddy88 When I said southern I was referring to culture, not necessarily location. I found that Miami lifestyle was very similar to that of the northeast.</p>