<p>I had this super-long thread typed out, but it got pretty much eaten by the website. So, more briefly...</p>
<p>I've gotten into 8 schools and narrowed it down to these four, and am now pretty much stuck. Help would be appreciated. I'm nerdy but social, from Los Angeles, and I intend to major in political science unless I'm at USC, in which case I'd major in journalism with a double major or minor in poli sci. I'll probably be active in student publications, political organizations (liberal), and the Jewish community. The first three would cost about the same as I'm in-state for the UCs and getting a half-tuition scholarship at USC - Smith would cost about twice as much.</p>
<p>USC
Pros: Top-notch undergraduate journalism school (only school that offers one); great daily paper; reasonably sized student body; nice campus; the "Trojan family"
Cons: Not sure the preppy/sports-oriented atmosphere I've heard it has would be a great fit for me; really close to home and not in a great area</p>
<p>Cal
Pros: Academically prestigious; intellectual; in an interesting location; great daily paper
Cons: Absolutely huge school; very little support network; a lot of kids from my high school end up going here</p>
<p>UCLA
Pretty much the same as Cal except much closer to home - this would probably be the first to get knocked off my list</p>
<p>Smith
Pros: The only out-of-state school I'm seriously considering; much smaller and more supportive; gorgeous campus and dorms; basically a real New England college experience
Cons: All-girls; not as great of a paper; really expensive (see above)</p>
<p>In the end, it's pretty much going to come down to USC and Cal. I've visited both briefly (I'm going back for longer) and liked them about equally. I really like the idea of going to a j-school (I know you're not "supposed" to for undergrad, but I'd like to study it), but I'm worried about USC's social scene. I like that Cal is more intellectual, but I wish it weren't so huge.</p>
<p>Any thoughts would be highly, highly appreciated. Thanks!</p>