<p>I don’t have much in the way of in-depth pros/cons—other than that you don’t really know much about Northwestern at all (in terms of environment, departmental strength, renown/prestige). Definitely research more on the school…it’s probably too late to visit, but if you can maybe talk to some current Northwestern students here on College Confidential (or through the admissions department), you’ll get a better feel for how attending Northwestern might be like.</p>
<p>How much does the $40,000-versus-free thing matter to your parents (assuming they’re the ones paying for it)? Considering you’re planning on med school, which is expensive all on its own, Northwestern could be a better option (unless the difference in financial burden is not that significant for your parents, and you feel you have more opportunities/like the environment more at CMU).</p>
<p>Do you not like Northwestern because of residual guilt issues concerned with the friend putting in a good word for you? Or are you just cautious about attending because of that?</p>