<p>We are in the final stretch of the college decision making process. For financial and other reasons we have narrowed the options down to UMass Amherst (with the intent to apply to the honors college after a semester of study) and American University. Both schools are possible with the aid received, however, if my son were to go to American he would be left with about $20,000 of student loans to pay back after graduation. Because American is not his top or second choice, the thought of having debt by attending AU vs. having zero debt attending UMass Amherst is rather discouraging even though he liked AU better based on our touring of the two campuses and various research into some of the academic programs and general student opportunities. </p>
<p>My son wants to major in international business with a focus on business communications along with a minor in Chinese Language/Culture Studies and another major in Theater which is his passion. He isn’t interested in government relations/poli sci which is very prevalent at AU as the students are some of the most politically active in the country.</p>
<p>All of this said, my question is: Based on what he is interested in, is American University a better school for him (in terms of programs/opportunities/class & overall academic quality) enough so that it will be worth it for him to take out loans of approx. $5000 a year.</p>