Looking for help on deciding between SMU [finance] and Columbia [history] [pre-law]

Transfer Students
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Hi y’all!

I’m a little torn between choosing SMU or Columbia. I’ll be studying history at Columbia and SMU (waiting on admissions to Cox for Finance).

Fortunately, tuition will be covered for both schools and I will not have to worry about paying for rent. My only concern will be deciding what apartment I want to rent…

With that being said, SMU is closer to home, family, friends, and trusted medical professionals that I see regularly. I would get a leg up in terms of networking, as the metroplex is where I see myself living long term. Most of my interactions with current students at the school are pleasant, and I sort of want to experience the ‘traditional’ college experience, which I know this school will provide.

Meanwhile, in NYC I’ll have to find a medical team I trust and will be away from my support group. I know it will be exciting to meet new people and explore. The interactions I’ve had with some of the students seemed transactional, but I know I can find my people there. The academic environment is cut throat, which I really don’t mind.

Long term, I’d like to become a lawyer, so maintaining high grades and getting a good LSAT score is what matters to me.

Please share your thoughts
Seriously asking btw

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Have you been admitted to SMU and are waiting to find out if you are admitted to Cox?

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I have been admitted. Unfortunately, Cox is a separate application and takes longer for the decisions to roll out

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SMU - regardless of the Cox decision - would seem to be the obvious choice for all of the reasons you listed. Am I missing something?

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Academically Columbia will be in another league but it sounds like you hesitate due to medical issues - while NYC doesn’t lack excellent practioners, check with your parents whether their health insurance covers you in NYC. Reach out to the Disability service/access office at both universities in order to see how they’d respond to your needs. And finally there’s the issue if comfort with the team - would you be able to handle a new one?

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SMU Cox based on the posted info.

Congratulations re: Columbia, but I wonder whether the additional stress might aggravate your medical condition.