<p>I disagree with Otis- don’t read too much into US News rankings. I think you should go to the open house for accepted students at Richmond this Saturday and attend whatever similar program they have at Duke. Even if you have visited each campus already, it is an opportunity to meet the people who will be a part of your son’s class. </p>
<p>A name can only float your son so far. It’s about where he will be most successful. Which campus is the right size? Which school has a better feel? You mentioned travel so you should consider who allows a car on campus (UR does). What classes are offered for your son’s intended major? What are the general education requirements? Where do graduates end up? </p>
<p>My opinion is obviously biased because I am set on UR for next year but I will tell you what influenced my decision. The classes are small. The professors are amazing. My AP US History teacher went to UR and he is a brilliant teacher- highly regarded by all students as well as the faculty. He began teaching three years ago and he is now the department chair of the history department and head coordinator of the IB program at my school. I know your son is not going into teaching but it leads me to my next point. UR offers an outstanding education that allows students to discover their niche and learn how to succeed. UR is home to the first school of leadership studies (Jepson) which can help your son take what he learns and soar; it will allow him to practically apply his knowledge and propel him into his chosen field as an expert and a leader. </p>
<p>Of course there are other benefits to UR- a gorgeous campus that is constantly well-maintained and it has a new (huge!) fitness center, wonderfully renovated dining hall, refurbished dorms, and a brand new on-campus stadium on the way. I know I have missed a lot of stuff but I don’t want this post to be too ridiculously long! </p>
<p>If you use rankings as a factor in your decision keep in mind that UR is on the rise and that their undergraduate business school (Robins) ranks twenty-fifth nationally by the premier business-school rankings service of BusinessWeek. Duke’s undergradate business program does not appear in the top fifty. Make sure you consider that UR’s top undergrad business school will also help your son get into a top graduate school should he decide to pursue a graduate degree. </p>
<p>Good luck making your decision and make sure to visit both campuses before you deposit!</p>