International Studies at UR

julyguy5
Thu, 28 Apr 2016 05:29:43 +0000

I’m a recently admitted undergrad transfer student at University of Richmond (UR), but I haven’t committed just yet. I’ve also been accepted to the Elliott School of International Affairs (ESIA) at George Washington University (GW), and I’m trying to decide between these two schools. My intended field of study at UR would be International Studies, the World Politics and Diplomacy track, and at ESIA my field of study would be International Affairs, the International Politics track. At ESIA I would also potentially minor in Political Science, or alternatively double major in it at UR, being that UR doesn’t offer it as a minor.

I understand the obvious advantages of attending ESIA at GW, being located in DC, having direct access to numerous internships and job opportunities, being part its large and strong alumni network, and potentially being able to take classes with some top notch and notable DC professional faculty. However, while I know both of these schools are quality institutions, I am less familiar with how strong the International Studies program at UR is and what kind of internship/job opportunities exist in the city of Richmond relative to government and/or the non-profit sector that I might be able to take advantage of while attending school there, or after graduation using UR’s alumni network and career services, and I need some feedback from those of you who can offer more information about the city of Richmond and UR’s program, and any additional comparisons of the two schools and cities that I may not be aware of, or that you think would be helpful.

Money is an important factor of course, and while I’m receiving financial aid from both schools, GW demands a larger investment compared to UR. I believe the biggest question I’m debating is whether or not attending GW is worth paying the extra cost in the long run instead of paying less to attend UR, or is UR a hell of a deal not to be passed up? Here are the major financial details I’m specifically debating between my choices.

(THESE ARE COSTS PER YEAR)

UR:
Estimated cost of attendance - $63,040
Total grant aid - $56,000
Remaining cost to me - $7,040 (Cost I’d have to pay out of pocket or use loans to pay)

GW:
Estimated cost of attendance - $69,100
Total grant aid - $43,815
Remaining cost to me - $25,285 (Cost I’d have to pay out of pocket or use loans to pay)

I’ll also mention I’m transferring in at junior status, so I’d only be studying about 2 more years to receive my Bachelor’s degree, and I’m a 30 year old independent with over a decade of work experience, some volunteer work, and previous State Department internship experience. I appreciate any helpful feedback/comments!