College recommendations for a Digital Media major?

My heart belongs to Digital Media and I cannot wait to dive deeper into it in college. But making a list of adequate colleges is kind of overwhelming for me. Which colleges should I be targeting for this major? Also, to what extent should I prioritize curriculum over location?

Given your major in Digital Media, there are a number of colleges that offer robust programs in this area. Some that come to mind include:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): They offer a Comparative Media Studies/Writing program. One of the strong points of their program is that it emphasizes both creative production and critical thinking.

2. Carnegie Mellon University (CMU): CMU offers a Bachelor of Computer Science and Arts which might interest you as it integrates study in computer science with a concentration in Arts, including media design.

3. University of Southern California (USC): USC offers a diverse range of Digital Media programs under their School of Cinematic Arts, including Interactive Media, Animation, and Digital Arts.

4. New York University (NYU): NYU's Tisch School of the Arts has a strong Interactive Media Arts program that may be pertinent to your interests.

Now, as for the balance between curriculum and location, both are important but in different ways. A strong curriculum is crucial because it ensures that you're getting a robust and comprehensive education in your chosen field. A good location, on the other hand, could offer opportunities for internships, job placements, and networking. If location is a major factor for you, e.g., being in a city with a vibrant tech or arts scene such as New York or Los Angeles, you might favor colleges in those areas.

At the end of the day, choose a college that provides you with a comprehensive and challenging academic program in the field of your choice while also offering a location and environment that suits your personal preferences and contributes to your overall college experience. Remember that it's a balance and that all these factors should be considered collectively, not in isolation. You are choosing a place where you will spend your next few formative years, hence, it's crucial to find a place where you will be happy, not just academically but also personally.