<p>hi I didn’t realize Northeastern has a bad rep, i think its actually considerd to be an “up and coming school”, I thought one who is just starting to appear on the radar, but yes you are right not as highly regarded as many who are in the same category. Is James Madison considered to be a better school? Are you from Va? i also applied there, don’t know why, my aunt lives really close to the school and we know two people there and we thought it would be a safety, although who knows these days? You sound so mature with regard to your parents finanaces, would J. Madison be a much cheaper option? I know for sure George Mason is not thought of in the same light as NW. Why don’t you try talking to current students at NW to see their take on the academic climate and to ask their opinoins? Also is a visit at all an option for you? We visited last summer, if you wany any info just let me know. Good luck either way~</p>