Rice vs. Almost Full Ride at SUNY Binghamton

dinosawr
Sat, 23 Apr 2011 23:23:48 +0000

My EFC for Rice is significant (we’d have to take out loans), but manageable, not completely terrible. My EFC for Bing though is pretty insignificant and extremely, extremely affordable. I haven’t visited either school, and can’t because of time/school/transportation fares. I’m from NYC. I’m still not sure what I want to study or do after college but I am leaning towards the premed track/med school. I’m concerned about the cost of med school; that’s what’s drawing me to the cheaper option, Bing. Should this be a real concern? Or will the professional salary make paying off med school/UG school debt bearable, and, in that case, I should choose Rice?

Things I like about Rice:
Houston, weather, down to earth, friendly, diverse student body, great for premeds, research opportunities, small class sizes/community feel, prestige

Why I wouldn’t HATE Bing if I went there:
Social scene, decent academics, big school so lots of new people and never feel suffocated, cheap! - I know I wouldn’t be putting a strain on my family to pay for my education

Things I’m iffy about regarding Rice/General questions:
Since it’s in Houston, I want to be able to explore Houston, but if public transportation sucks, and parking sucks, then there’s no point in having Houston there. How easy is it to explore Houston/get to Houston? Would you suggest having a car as a freshman? (How’s parking?)

I’m worried about the size and feeling like it’s too small, socially.

Feelings about the meal plan?

How’s off-campus housing money-wise, quality-wise and in terms of how close the off campus housing is to the campus?

Is an UG experience at Rice worth the money or should I save for med school and just choose Bing?

I do plan on talking to my family about how to decide but any help would really be appreciated!! I have to make my decision by May 1. Thanks!