Hello everyone,
The title pretty much says it all! I am choosing between attending either UMD, Tulane, or GWU this upcoming fall. I plan to major in business and am an in state resident in Maryland. I have been accepted to all of these schools but there are a few factors to consider. First, I have been admitted as a Spring 2016 admit at UMD and plan to enroll in Freshman Connection if I decide to go to UMD. Also, I have not been admitted to the business school so I would have to internally transfer into the program. I realize this is difficult but it is not impossible but is a factor to consider in my decision. Second, I have received a $15,000 yearly scholarship at GWU ($60,000 in total for all four years) and have been admitted into the business school. Also GWU appeals to me because I may want to get my law degree after I graduate and GWU has a great graduate law program. Third, I have always wanted to go somewhat far away to college. Tulane would meet this need perfectly. New Orleans seems like an amazing city and the school seems great as well. However, I did not receive any merit money to go there while I did at GWU and in state tuition at UMD is unsurpassed.
My question to you all is where would you go? What is everyone’s opinion of each school? Which school has the best overall reputation? What school has the best atmosphere? Which school has the best internship/job opportunities during school and after graduation? Also, what caliber of schools are these considered (bad, average, good, incredible)?
Thank you for all of your help!
You need to tell us more about what you want/need from a campus/student experience. Ok, you’re into business- that definitely helps. GW has a great business school (I can’t speak for the others). As far as the best internship opportunities, I’d have to say GW. It has so many connections and networking opportunities, not to mention the proximity to downtown D.C. (yes, College Park isn’t much further but a few Metro stops make a world of difference in D.C.).
Now, as far as the best overall reputation and the ‘caliber’ of school, it’s probably best to take into consideration the programs you’re studying. For example, GW is an amazing International Affairs and Political Science university. It’s got a good engineering program. However, UMD has a great engineering program and probably others that I’m not too familiar with. Try to compare apples to apples.
The same applies for the general atmosphere. GW and College Park are worlds apart when it comes to general campus feel. GW in an urban campus, complete with hustle and bustle, great nightlife walking distance or a few Metro Stops away, walking distance to the National Mall and all the outdoor activities you can find there, and so much more. College Park is a very traditional campus in the sense that it has a defined outer border and feels like its own little town. Lots of grass, a huge quad, lots of trees, and very stereotypical campus academic buildings. You have to decide which you prefer because there is no “best” when it comes to atmosphere- pick which you feel will be a better learning/growing environment for you.
Hope this helps!