<p>I should add that son’s decision was made easier by the fact that he liked Chapman Dodge better than USC SCA all along, before and even more so <em>after</em> multiple visits to the schools and after spending time with students in the two programs, etc. We did wrestle with the ‘industry connections’ issue–exactly the one you are weighing in your OP, above. But son didn’t like the atmosphere at USC SCA as much as at Dodge, and despite the glorious facilities and reputation as the ‘best of the best,’ he wasn’t as impressed with the students or their animation work (he’s a Digital Arts major). Add to that the fact that one school included large loans and the other (Chapman) was affordable…well, the choice was relatively easy, in the end (and boy were mom & dad happy, LOL!).</p>
<p>It could well be harder for your daughter to say no to Chapman (if she loves it) in lieu of the more affordable CSU’s. So, the most important thing will be for her to know right from the get-go that Chapman could be a financial reach and that her going there depends, ultimately, on the FA package in April. Our son knew that about the privates on his list (USC SCA, Chapman-Dodge, LMU), right from the start. This is key; the kids must know that financial factors will play into the decision, even after the acceptances are in. The process ended up being a very good one for DS. He gained wisdom and learned a lot about making life choices/financial planning.</p>