Click here to go to the NEW College Discussion Forum

I'm just a junior, so obviously I have no idea if I'll actually be admitted to either of the following programs, but assuming I am admitted to both, which do you think is the better deal?

The College of New Jersey Honors Program: To be considered for the honors program, each applicant needs to have a 1350 SAT or be in the top 5% of his class. Also, since I'm an instate student, if I raise my SAT's 20 points, I'll receive a full scholarship to the school, room and board included. And even if I don't raise my SAT's 20 points, I'll still get to go for half price.

OR

Cornell University School of Arts and Sciences: I'd have to pay full price since my family doesn't qualify for aid.

By Soozievt (Soozievt) on Saturday, May 31, 2003 - 10:47 am: Edit

I think this is a very personal matter and lots depends on what your parents say in regards to this. I am sure you can get a fine education at either school. Obviously it really changes things if one is for free and one costs an arm and a leg. Do you like both schools? It is really important that you feel you would like to attend whichever school you get into. Does it fit the criteria you have for a college? Does it have your field of interest? Money aside, I would advise you to go to the college that you see as the best fit for you. I suppose if both feel like a good fit, then you might want to consider attending the more challenging academic environment.

Turning down a full ride in tuition is not easy and your reason should be compelling. Your parents really would have a say in that matter. I am a parent and my view is just to do with my own personal situation and in no way means it is the right choice for you. Affording college for us will be tough, but I want my child who is currently finishing up junior year to attend whereever she wants since she did her part to achieve what she has toward her dreams/goals. As valedictorian, she will be offered a full four year ride at University of Vermont (in our state) as each Val gets that. However, she does not wish to attend there and we will be having her apply to where she wants to go. I suppose she has that fall back in case none of her schools were to work out or not even her safeties but we will likely be turning down this offer (ouch!) to allow her to go where she wants. That is just us but I think anyone can do well no matter where they attend. But the school should match your needs as best as it can.

Good luck and congrats on what you have achieved in school so far and keep it up....it will pay off in the end!
Susan

By Mariellergram (Mariellergram) on Saturday, May 31, 2003 - 12:28 pm: Edit

Thanks. Well, my parents want me to try to go for Cornell. Quite honestly though, I visited TCNJ and loved it. It has about 6000 students which is just the size I want, the campus is very pretty, and it isn't too far from home. Even though my parents said they'd gladly pay for my tuition, if I could go to college without the aid of my parents, I think I'd feel a lot more independent. Plus, I plan on getting a doctorate in history, which means I'll be in school for a LONG time and the tuition fees will really add up. Also, my undergraduate school won't be too important if I receive a doctorate anyway... Thanks for the input Soozievt.

By Mariellergram (Mariellergram) on Sunday, June 01, 2003 - 09:12 am: Edit

bump

By Cornellian07 (Cornellian07) on Sunday, June 01, 2003 - 03:32 pm: Edit

Why don't you apply to both, see where you get in, see if you get any financial aid or scholarships from Cornell, and then in 10 months from now, come back to this board and ask the question again.