I was offered a $11,000/year scholarship to Rowan University, but I want to go to UNCW more. Do you guys think it is possible to call up UNCW and ask for money? My parents were fine with me going here before but now that I was offered money from the other school, they are pressuring me to go there.
For what it’s worth, my son (a 2013 Rowan CEE grad) has worked on a project with a NC firm that recruits heavily from UNC-W (I think the principals went there). He didn’t feel that they learned anything he didn’t learn and, from what I hear, the firm (a client of mine) didn’t, either.
A lot depends on where you believe you will do your best work, your major, and where you plan to start your career. If you want to start in NC, go to NC-W. If not, I’d go to Rowan. Once you’re in, your project list is more important than your diploma.
Also bear in mind that starting salaries (thus, your ability to repay the debt) will vary by location. Companies in North Jersey generally pay significantly more than companies south of I-195. Median home costs are significantly less in NC than northern NJ but, surprisingly, I’ve found that apartment rental costs don’t vary as much as one would think.
As someone whose best friend attends Rowan (and loves it), pressure your parents back. Let them know that you only want UNCW. That’s what I had to do last year when my parents tried so desperately to get me to attend Quinnipiac University.
Rowan and UNCW are peer institutions and are very academically similar to one another. They’re both very good schools, each top 5 or 6 in their respective states. However, UNCW (4 stars) has the faintest of edges over Rowan (3.5 stars).
I hope you’re able to come here!! 