Vassar vs Fordham Honors

Hi everyone, I’ve narrowed down my college search to Vassar College and Fordham Rose Hill Honors Program. I’m having a realllyyyy hard time making my final decision. My intended major is political science, and I would like to eventually work as either an aide to a politician or write for a political publication.

I like Fordham a lot, and the proximity to NYC internships and the fact that I’m in the honors program are big sellers. Fordham is, however, $8,000 more per year for me to attend. The people at Fordham seemed very nice, but some of them fit into that jocky/preppy/rich kid mold and it was kind of a turn off. I don’t know how often I would get to take advantage of the city, but I have friends who go to NYU, and I would like to have that accessibility to Manhattan. The alumni connections/job placements were very impressive.

Vassar is a beautiful school but I am not too thrilled about going to school in Poughkeepsie. The price is obviously better for me, and the school has more prestige than Fordham, but I am afraid that the school might be a little TOO liberal/artsy for me. Don’t get me wrong, I’m very liberal, but I just don’t know if I would fit into that crowd of students (tbh some of them seemed very strange and it’s kind of making me nervous about making friends). That being said, I love the intellectually stimulating vibe on campus, and the students and professors seem very passionate. The sense of community on campus is very appealing.

Can anyone provide some insight? I love both schools, but I just want to know which one will help me secure a quality job in the political field. Fordham’s honors program and connection to NYC seem like great opportunities, but I am not sure if they are even worth the extra cost. Will Vassar help me get to where I want to go? And if I do go to Vassar, does everyone fit that hyperliberal/artsy stereotype?

Thanks in advance :slight_smile:

If you have to take on student loans to go to Fordham, then I probably would suggest going to Vassar. But if 8k a year isn’t going to break the bank, then I say go to Fordham, since you sound like you would like it there better. But if finances are an issue and if you don’t like Fordham that much better than Vassar, then just go to Vassar. But you’ll be happy at either one I’m sure. Good luck with your decision!