<p>Recently I've been torn between these two universities and now I need to make up my mind. Im planning on pursuing Computer Science with a minor (or a possible double major) in Business Administration. USC has a combo CS/BA program which is very attractive, but on the other hand, double majoring in both at WUSTL would also be very easy. When it comes to the numbers WUSTL (#12) is ranked higher than USC (#27) according to USNWR, but other statistics I have seen show that the schools are almost equal, with a slight edge towards USC (at least concerning engineering and business). USC has a great alumni network and reputation and Im sure that will help especially if I come back to California to work. WashU on the other hand is also prestigious, although it is less widely recognized. Im planning on completing my education and then working for a couple of years before going back to school for an MBA. Both of these schools appeal to me and Im really not sure which one to choose, any input?</p>
<p>Did you get any scholarship money at either school? Does that make a difference to you?
I can tell you that both USC and Wash U. are great schools. However, Wash U. is in St. Louis, which is why my son did not apply there. Have you seen these schools? I suggest that you go back and stay over night at both schools to get a better sense of the difference and the right fit for you. Keep in mind that many freshmen change their mind about their majors. Therefore, look at the over all Engineering and Business schools at both universities. I heard that if you major in CS/Business at USC, you get the advantage of applying to internships at both Viterbi Engineering and Marshall Business.</p>
<p>Last year, a lot of students had to make decision between these 2 choices. D knows a lot picked USC over WUSTL because of the location.</p>
<p>mdcissp: Unfortunately I will not be receiving any scholarship money at either of the schools. Fortunately, that does not make a difference.</p>
<p>I’m actually going to drive down to LA this weekend for the Explore USC day on Monday and will be flying to St. Louis for the Multicultural Celebration Weekend, so I will have a chance to see both campuses. Right now I’m just trying to get a better feel for each of their respective atmospheres before I set foot on campus. Thanks for all the help!</p>
<p>alpha, you are doing it right. Both are wonderful schools, filled with friendly, smart students, great programs and professors, and helpful administrations that make your four-years run smoothly. But when you visit the campuses, you notice the differences in feel. The midwest isn’t the west coast. You will get to see the students, the dorms, the atmosphere, and yes–the weather. You will know which feels best for you. (btw, there was an ice storm in the midwest this weekend.) </p>
<p>My S had to decide between these same two schools and a few more last year, but for him there was no contest. His major was one big draw to USC. He also loved USC’s TO program, which allows him to take smaller classes with top professors. Even though he had wanted to go east for college, living in L.A. has been amazing. The ease of making plans to come home for breaks (he doesn’t come home on weekends, btw–has too much going on with his friends), the savings in travel costs, plus convenience in bringing his car to school, etc, has made USC’s location a real advantage. Plus–he loves L.A. and he’s experiencing the city in a way he hadn’t ever done before. Of course, you may find the midwestern setting more to your liking.</p>
<p>One thing that struck him was how harsh weather can make kids kind of rush across campus to get out of the rain/snow/sleet/cold winds, while a warm weather college has more kids hanging around the quads, sitting on lawns talking, playing frisbee, whatever. It just looked more… social to him. </p>
<p>Hope you enjoy your college visits. Let us know what you decide.</p>