LMU vs Georgetown: Which one should I choose?

I've been accepted to Loyola Marymount University (LMU) and Georgetown University, but I'm struggling to make a decision. What are some major differences between the two schools, and what factors should I consider in choosing which one to attend? I'd love to hear about personal experiences or insights from current students or alumni!

Congratulations on being accepted to both Loyola Marymount University and Georgetown University! These are both fantastic schools, but they offer different experiences and opportunities that might suit you better depending on your preferences and priorities. Here are some points to consider when weighing your options:

Location: LMU is in Los Angeles, which offers great weather, a vibrant arts scene, and countless entertainment options. Georgetown is in Washington, D.C., providing you with access to politics, culture, and government internships. Think about which city's atmosphere and opportunities align better with your interests and goals.

Size and campus feel: LMU is a smaller, more intimate campus, with around 9,000 students. This could translate into smaller class sizes and more opportunities for personal connections with professors. Georgetown, though not huge, has about 19,000 students in total (although a similar number of unergrads to LMU) and offers a more traditional college feel with historic buildings and a bustling campus.

Academic focus: LMU offers strong programs in film production, communication studies, and engineering. They provide students with a liberal arts education grounded in the Jesuit tradition. On the other hand, Georgetown is renowned for its programs in international relations, political science, and business. Consider the strengths of each school's programs and how they align with your academic and career interests.

Financial considerations: Take into account the financial aid packages offered by each school, as well as additional costs like living and transportation expenses in each city. This can factor heavily into your decision as you want to make sure you are making a financially sound choice. Generally, Georgetown offers more generous finaid than LMU, as Georgetown meets 100% of students' demonstrated need, while LMU does not. The ROI of Georgetown may also be better, as the average base salary of grads is $87k according to Payscale, while it's $76k for LMU grads.

Social scene and extracurriculars: Both campuses have their unique social scenes and events. Think about your preferences for social environments and extracurricular activities, and try to get a sense of what life is like outside the classroom at each school by talking to current students or alumni, watching day-in-the-lifes on social media or YouTube, and visiting the campuses if possible.

Ultimately, it's essential to consider which environment and community you'll feel most comfortable in and which school can best support your academic and personal growth. It could be helpful to talk to current students or alumni from both schools to gain more insights into their programs, campus life, and overall experiences. Trust your instincts and think about where you can see yourself thriving during your time in college. Good luck with your decision!