USC vs Northeastern

<p>I've narrowed my list down to these two schools and I'm having a little trouble deciding between the two because they're both different but very good schools. I'm planning on majoring in sociology or anthropology (anthro at USC, soc at Northeastern), with a minor in either public health or international affairs/relations with the intention of applying/attending medical school. I received half tuition at USC (presidential scholarship) and was accepted to the University Scholars program (full tuition, travel stipend, research grants--basically if I want something to happen, they make it happen) at Northeastern. I've visited both schools and though they both feel very different, there are draws to both (USC feels similar to my high school which isn't a bad thing, but Northeastern is in Boston and feels very different but in a good way). I've told myself in the past I've wanted to get out of the "1000-mile bubble" from my hometown--which Northeastern is, but I find myself making exceptions for USC because it's USC and is extremely prestigious particularly where I'm from (though in no way do I want to base my decision on the prestige of a school). I love the feel of Boston--it has the urban feel I've wanted--but you can't beat the weather and west-coast vibe of USC. </p>

<p>In short, in your opinion, which school would offer me the best opportunity for a) research, b) high MCAT scores, c) a good GPA, d) subsequent placement into a high-ranked medical school, e) and would not be disgustingly cutthroat? And why?</p>

<p>Thanks guys!</p>

<p>University Scholars at NEU. Both colleges are great but University Scholars will make the difference: ultimately, it’s what YOU do in college, and at NEU essentially you’d have everything at your fingertips to “make things happen”.</p>

<p>I agree, the University Scholars Program looks amazing. I will be attending Northeastern, so announced bias there a bit. Northeastern will have all the resources you need. I feel you with the weather coming from Florida, and in the end it doesn’t matter too much as I love the urban feel and the city as a whole. That said, you really can’t go wrong with either here, I would focus on where you would be happy more than the academics at this stage. Both will provide you with opportunities and a great road ahead.</p>

<p>Thanks guys for your input-- anyone else have any thoughts?</p>

I’m actually in the exact same dilemma now. @divingbells which school did you end up choosing and what is your experience like currently?

If you have money, go with USC. For me personally, since money is an issue, I’d go with Northeastern. And in case you’re wondering, your employee would most likely prefer to see USC on your app.

So you would be able to graduate debt free from the University Honors Program? I would take the scholarship if that is true. You’ll be way ahead of the curve if you can graduate with no debt.

If you are from the west coast, weather might be a challenge. Also, you have to factor in your travel expenses for you visiting home and for your parents visiting you.

We are from the beach in Orange County and we shipped our son to Northeastern last fall. he has not once
Mentioned the cold and snow? He has met good friends in IV dorm and the engineering program.

In my opinion Northeastern is an undervalued college and like an undervalued stock has much upside.
We chose Northeastern betting on its management Aoun. That he could grow the school to a 25-30
ranking by 2019.

Aoun graduated from MIT, and was a Dean of Arts and Letters at USC. Count on continuing excelence and prestige
from Northeastern.