<p>@yupper, while THON is slightly different than regular fund-raising, when you write a check to support THON, it goes to Penn State (albeit pediatric cancer). It may not support student scholarships, but it absolutely is tied to Penn State. It was just one example of how donors ARE supporting Penn State.</p>
<p>With regard to your merit scholarship, there are some new (incremental) programs out there that require funding. For all we know, you didn’t make the GPA requirement to keep your merit scholarship and that has more to do with losing your individual funding than anything else. There are any million of reasons. Many merit scholarships are endowed - and only spend the interest generated and keep the principle intact. (So, if investments earned lower interest, they will spend less money on scholarships). Some have a specific requirement to go to different students every year because they believe helping 4 different people over 4 years is better use of their money than 1 person all 4 years. You are taking very small sampling and applying it broadly to all. </p>
<p>Anecdotally, my firm hired MORE Penn Staters this year because those of us on the hiring committee don’t want students to suffer and we believe in our alma mater. So, does that mean that all firms are hiring more Penn Staters? No, of course not. There are many layers to Penn State, to financial decisions, and even to this scandal. Does the scandal affect students, alumni, and donors? Of course it does. Does it mean people are running from Penn State in fear? Of course not.</p>
<p>Back to the original topic? I think both school have many great things to offer. Ultimately, where do you feel comfortable? Where do you see yourself? Trust your instinct - it is usually right. Good luck with your decision.</p>