<p>We are CA parents with DS graduating with pharmD from Northeastern in two weeks. It was rigorous, but he was able to participate in many non-pharmacy activities and club sports so he got a real all-around college experience. </p>
<p>If you are sure you wish to study pharmacy go with NU because it guarantees all pharmacy majors the opportunity to finish in 6 years without going through another interview/evaluation/screening after the 2nd year (and the possibility of not being selected) for the 4-year professional program. (We know of several pre-pharm majors at UoP who did not get selected to the professional school despite what is posted on the website.) At Northeastern you will also earn a Bachelor’s degree during the 6 year program with the pharmD awarded at the end. NU also guarantees you a seat in every class you will need in sequence to graduate on time. Unfortunately the public universities cannot offer you the same. (DS was also able to complete a minor in Business Administration during his years at NU.)</p>
<p>As far as travel is concerned, if you purchase advance fares from BOS to SFO you can get them down to $300-400 round trip. DS did not come home for short holidays (Thanksgiving), but met many friends there who hosted him. The NU winter break is long enough that your air travel can be before & after the highest fares. </p>
<p>At NU, during the co-op periods, you can earn significant $$ while getting 12-18 months of experience in your chosen field (pharmacy has 3 x 4 month coops, the other majors have 3 x 6 month coops). You can make some great connections for post-graduate employment.</p>
<p>Cost of living for DS in Boston was not significantly more than his friends who went to UCB, UCLA, UCI, and UCSD. You don’t need a car in Boston – public transportation is good and inexpensive. (If you’re not sure of pharmacy, don’t go to a private university unless the FA makes a a significant advantage over a UC or CSU. Go to a CA public university and figure out what you want to do.)</p>
<p>Good luck with your decision!</p>