Where will I find my niche?

<p>I’m now a senior, and it seems that I’m daunted with the task of finding the “right fit” for a college. I hope to major in finance, economics, and/or political science. The main two schools I’m stuck between are the University of Maryland, College Park, and New York University. Yes, I know they are two completely different universities, but here’s the deal: I’m a Maryland resident, so I get in-state tuition at UMD. From what I’ve read, NYU gives very little financial aid. My parents aren’t really the type to just write out a check for $50,000 a year for education either. I think that NYU would probably offer more opportunities for a career in finance than UMD, but it would be a very big investment (obviously).</p>

<p>Perhaps it would be best for me to tell a bit about myself. I attend a small, rural public school hours away from the nearest urban areas (DC, Baltimore, & Pittsburgh). My family could be described as upper-middle class, economically. While there aren’t as many opportunities for involvement in extra-curricular activities as found in bigger schools, I am extremely involved in my school’s community. I’m currently the President of the Student Government Association at my school, I am the sole Student Representative on the Board of Education for my district/county, I participate in Mock Trial and Model U.N. I am a member of the National Honor Society. Also, I’m a captain in marching band and I play saxophone in jazz, concert, and stage ensembles. Additionally, I work a part time job at a restaurant. My grades consist of mostly A’s and a few high B’s. My SAT score was 1800 first try. I take the most challenging courses available at my school (honors/AP) and my senior schedule is the most rigorous I will have taken yet.</p>

<p>I want a school that has a prestigious business program, offers many clubs/organizations with leadership opportunities, exposes me to diversity and chances to really see the world (beyond the small-town America that I have been raised in), and enables me to have a strong future in business/finance. I realize NYU is probably better than UMD in all of those areas, but is it worth the cost? Will my career opportunities be significantly expanded if I attend NYU?</p>

<p>Thanks for all input!</p>

<p>NYU is not worth that much money, UMD is a great school.</p>

<p>^ I agree with barrk.</p>

<p>The cost for applying to NYU is $70.</p>

<p>If I were you I would sacrifice those $70 dollars and apply. You could get a good deal. Also, apply to different outside scholarships.
I am a senior too and I believe that at this point we have nothing to loose. I have friends who have gone to the “expensive” school for cheaper, so why not?</p>