<p>I didn’t get into my top choices. I’m left to choose between Hofstra University, Arizona State or University of Vermont as a part of the GAP year program or Gaurenteed Admissions Program. As a GAP student, I would be taking courses within the Continuing Education as a non degree student for one semester before officially transferring to UVM as an undergrad.</p>
<p>The only problem is that I do not want to be recognized as a non degree student. If I attend Hofstra or ASU, at least I would be a part of the freshman class and have a full first semester college experience. </p>
<p>My question: Is it worth going to UVM for one semester to later transfer given the academics are ranked higher?</p>
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What do you mean by “recognition as a non-degree student”? Starting 2nd semester you will be a regular UVM student, and your diploma, I’m sure, will have no mention of any non-degree classes. The only reason I could see not to do this if you want to go to UVM is if you are not allowed to live in the dorms at UVM. If you are, I don’t see how you miss out on any of the “full first semester college experience”.</p>
<p>edit: I see you are basing this on “ranked higher”. Rankings are not really relevant to your decision, IMHO. You should focus on fit and finances. Pick the college that you can afford, that supplies the environment that you want. Any good college admission book talks about “fit”, and thats what will matter to you both in the short and long term – not what US News decided to rate the college.</p>