UVA, UNC, or Davidson

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
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<p>I have been accepted at all three and am having trouble making a decision. I will most likely major in political science, economics, or public policy and intend on pursuing a graduate degree following the completion of my undergraduate education. My home state is North Carolina. My situation at each school is as follows:</p>

<p>UVA- I did not qualify for financial aid. While my campus visit was enjoyable and left a favorable impression, I don't know if I felt like it "clicked." I thought the M.P.P. program at the Batten School was quite interesting. The Student Council also seemedUnfortunately, I know do not know any current students at UVA and would have no support network.</p>

<p>UNC- As with UVA, I did not qualify for financial aid. However, my father is a disabled combat veteran, and as such, I qualify for a scholarship from the VA which which will pay the full tuition and associated costs at Carolina. I especially like the Student Government and Roosevelt Institute at Chapel Hill, and fully intend on participating in these activities if I matriculate. My high school is a feeder school for UNC, and we regularly send at least five students (if not more) every year.</p>

<p>Davidson- I did not qualify for financial aid, but have received a scholarship which will cover $15,000 annually and is renewable for four years. I have also been named the Class of 2015 Batten Scholar, which is a recognition for commitment to public policy and public service. The Admissions Office at Davidson is absolutely fantastic and has been very kind. In addition, many of the students I have formed contacts with have been more than willing to help me with any questions I have had.</p>

<p>Though I did not qualify for financial aid at any of these schools, finances are not an issue. Any help, advice, or comments would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!</p>

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<p>Sounds to me like the choice is UNC versus Davidson. While both are fantastic schools (I live in Davidson, and my high school is a UNC-feeder as well), there are some pretty obvious differences: small liberal arts college vs. huge research university; teeny college town near Charlotte vs. bigger college town in Research Triangle; isolated vs. proximity to UNC and State; private vs. public (and the corresponding differences in diversity and backgrounds); larger out-of-state population vs. many in-staters; etc.</p>

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<p>Between my son and his 4 closest friends, 3 are going to UNC, 1 to UVA and 1 to Davidson. The one going to UVA is a VA resident, got a partial Jefferson scholarship and didn’t apply to UNC. The one going to Davidson also was accepted to UNC but realizes that he’s not ready for such a big school in comparison to UNC (which maturity-wise is a good decision for him).</p>

<p>Finances weren’t an issue for most his friends but as one told me, “With the future cost of graduate school, I don’t right spending so much of their money at a private school just for my undergraduate degree.” So I agree that your choices should be UNC or Davidson (depending on the strings attached to the Davidson scholarship ~ pressure/stress?).</p>

<p>Both are great schools but only you can decide which is the best fit FOR YOU.</p>