Very Unique Transfer Case

<p>Hey guys, I will be an incoming freshman at St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas this fall. I graduated high school in September of 2004 on an accelerated program and have spent the last year in Paris, France interning for TIME Magazine as a photographer. Although I love photography, my real passion lies in Middle Eastern studies and I would love to transfer to a university that has a more in-depth program in this field. My SAT was 1240 and I graduated in the top 30% of a 5A high school class. I also speak fluent English and French with competent Arabic and Russian skills. Although my academic skills might be lacking, I believe that for my young age, 18, that my real-world experiences in a foreign country can greatly benefit me. This upcoming fall semester I have signed up for 18 hours, however, will evaluate my situation once school starts and might drop down to 15. When would be the best time to apply as a transfer? Would it be more advantageous to apply for Fall 2006, or Spring 2007 or Fall 2007? Good grades are obviously a must, but, besides that, what sorts of things should I be looking for? I really want to go to Georgetown, however, they only offer fall admission. I assume it would be better to apply for Fall 2006, because my fear is that by Fall 2007 I would be too far into the curiculum at my current school. Is that thought warranted? Other choices include:</p>

<p>NYU
Tufts
University of Texas - Austin
University of Michigan</p>

<p>Any advice would be great. Thanks a lot!</p>

<p>Chris
<a href="http://www.dittophotos.com%5B/url%5D"&gt;http://www.dittophotos.com&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p>

<p>Have you looked at Brandeis? They have a Middle Eastern Studies department, as well as Arabic and all that good stuff. It can give you a more personal experience with the professors than UT and NYU.</p>

<p>bump : ) bump : )bump : )</p>