Honestly, I’d have to ask…they are from the South - one was pre-med, and I’m not sure what the other majored in but he’s in business now, so neither are in your field.
So, I really can’t fairly comment on a comparison of schools for your intended major, but… I will repeat that the proximity to DC for a poli sci or journalism major is just incomparable…think of the internship opportunities! Remember that you can always visit New Orleans if you like the area…