<p>Sadly, Sharkfin needs to learn how to spell and make a compelling argument.</p>
<p>Seems to me that there is not enough academic difference between Northwestern and USC to spend so much more money at Northwestern, especially if you plan to then spend more money at grad school. </p>
<p>But, some of the decision should also depend on what kind of school environment you want - sports, size, weather, etc. My child would definitely pick USC, but that is because he wants things (such as big sports, lots of sunshine, etc) that Northwestern doesn’t offer. His desired major of engineering would be great at both schools.</p>
<p>I did not go to either of your choices for college, but I did have to choose between three Ivy League schools in my senior year, back when dinosaurs roamed. Two were almost free to me because of a scholarship, while the third, which was originally my first choice, would have been full-ride for my parents to pay. In the end I chose one of the cheaper options, because I knew my parents were going to have three kids in college at the same time, and my top choice didn’t seem worth that strain on the family, when the other two were good alternatives.</p>
<p>Don’t let the US News rankings determine everything. Consult with your parents, and use your heart and your head to make your own decision.</p>