<p>Before I start, congratulations! A full ride at Vandy is a pretty admirable achievement!</p>
<p>That said, I get the idea that your decision isn't about finances; it's more about justifying the finances. I think that if your parents are happy to pay (and adopt the sort of philosophy of "we can't take money to the grave"), you should go. If you want to go to grad school, you'll probably be able to take out a loan and pay it back eventually, unless it's a PhD... in which case you'll probably have a fellowship. If that is the case with your parents, consider carefully the benefits and downsides of each option. Here's what I'd put as the benefits for the different options:</p>
<p>Yale:
+Strong cohort; you can learn from others -> I'd probably put this as number one, as it can completely change your perspective
+Huge international resources for internships
+Alumini network
+Rich extra curricular program (national conferences, political unions)
+Brilliant academics
+Community and individual attention</p>
<p>Vandy:
+If you're on a full ride, it'll probably be easier for you to stand out
+Perhaps your peers won't be as intimidating at first?
+You won't have the $$$ guilt?</p>
<p>I don't know; it's up to you. Best of luck!</p>