<p>I think it comes down to way more that “this one is cheaper so go there.” My best friend used that equation and after a year of a miserably unhappy daughter, they had to go through the transfer process and a horrible start to college. In your case however, you have 2 great choices, but public v private is very different. Are you dealing with the conflict that a lot of people have choosing between these two - you know it would be less struggle at USC but you really like the UCLA campus and atmosphere?</p>