Penn vs. Northwestern Forum

[downsouth]

Ideally after graduation I want to practice east coast/northeast. I'd like to do public interest/government work, but also am interested in patent and international law.

Penn offered me $25k/yr, Northwestern offered $40k/yr. I already sent the Northwestern offer to Penn and $25k is the new offer from them based on that.

I really like Penn, but I'm not sure if my wallet likes an additional $15k/year in loans. Any thoughts?

[sarahlawg]

how did you get Penn to respond to you so quickly about financial aid? They've had my info for weeks =(

[math101]

Have you factored in total COL differences? From what I remember, Northwestern has one of the highest tuition rates of the T14, and Chicago is, I believe, more expensive than Philly. Also, you should look into their LRAP programs if you're interested in PI after graduation.

[sarahlawg]

Have you factored in total COL differences? From what I remember, Northwestern has one of the highest tuition rates of the T14, and Chicago is, I believe, more expensive than Philly. Also, you should look into their LRAP programs if you're interested in PI after graduation.

to save time for OP since I already have the numbers - if you don't factor in NU's laptop, you're looking at Penn being 11k/y more rather than 15k/y. If you do, obviously it'll be a 9k/y difference.

[Ash;-)]

i would take N.W. especially with PI in mind. and the extra money always helps...lol