I’m reading all these responses and smiling at how some of them sound like your crowd of family, cheering on the Stanford name and ignoring everything else. Stanford isn’t going to open more doors than Rice if it isn’t the right place for you. This is not a one-size-fits-all decision. I know recent grads from both schools and there is no clear pattern of success. So much depends on your personality and how the school fits you. If you find your people and take advantage of opportunities around you, you will be successful at either place. ** Trust yourself to make the right decision based on what matters to you. **
That said everyone who is urging you to visit Stanford during the Admitted Students Weekend is giving you sound advice. You may find that Stanford offers you everything Rice does and more. (Make sure you go beyond the dog and pony show of the Admit Weekend. Visit classes, talk with current students walking around the campus, ask questions.)
Everyone who attends an elite school feels like an imposter. Expect to find yourself blown away by the talent you encounter at both Rice and at Stanford. I remember taking one of my children to visit a “safety school” and overhearing a conversation between a professor and a student that blew me away. And then hearing kids in the admissions office talking together while waiting for tours to begin. They were incredible. There are inspiring kids who make us all feel small everywhere. :"> Don’t let it shake your decision. I think it’s a growing experience for all young adults to move into the new pond and find confidence in that new environment over time. You really have to adjust your perspective so that you appreciate the talent you meet and learn from your peers rather than strive to be the best. I’ll grant you there are many people who never learn that lesson. The ones who do seem to me to be happier. Don’t let the fear of change and the fear of not measuring up hold you back.
And finally, the money. That’s a big difference if that’s truly the way the awards stack up. I’d have a hard time turning down Stanford–assuming you don’t affirmatively dislike the school–if it’s nearly free to you.
There’s lots to think about and you don’t have all the data yet. If you wouldn’t mind, would you come back to this thread and post your impressions of your Stanford visit? I’d love to hear what you ultimately decide. Good luck with a decision many would love to be making!