GULC vs Vandy($)???

[frankzone]

Hi guys,

Really need some help here! I've been admitted to GULC (no money) and Vandy (offers 27k/year, 81k for 3 years). Now, as a foreigner (Chinese, engineering background), I don't really have much geographical preference. And my money is tight. I can manage about $20k, and the rest has to come from loans(which require a consigner in the US)

Which one should I go with here? GULC is a T14 (ranked 14 by the USNews), Vandy ranks 15. Is there a huge gap between the two in terms of academic environment, employment perspective, influence, etc? I don't plan to stay long in the US after graduation (probably after repaying the loans.)

Any suggestion or additional info is welcome. Please help me out here, thanks!!! 

[Contract2008]

Pick Vandy, unless you have to be in certain class rank to keep the scholarshp at Vandy.  As a foreigner, your chance of being at the top of the class is slim.

[JeNeSaisLaw]

The only requirement is that you have to remain in good academic standing (i.e. breathe).

I would find the decision pretty easy because I prefer small schools. GULC places a little better, but nothing significant (probably ~5%, some will argue ~10% deeper in the class at GULC). Nashville is also awesome and very affordable.

[Contract2008]

The only requirement is that you have to remain in good academic standing (i.e. breath).

If that's the only requirment, then the choice is very easy.  It's Georgetown, not Penn or Columbia. 

[SASS]

I agree, go Vandy.  With the money you are being offered and the difference in cost of living compared to practically the same ranking school, I would definitely choose Vandy. DC is very expensive. Vandy for sure.

[nealric]

The main thing I would look into is how the two degrees would be appreciated in China. My impression is that GULC has a more internationally known name, but it's completely unknown compared to places like Harvard.

Additionally, the 2x debt at GULC would probably mean staying in the US 2x as long. Are you OK with that?

I do recall that there were a few firms at OCI here that recruited for positions in China. You might check and see if any firms do this at Vandy.

[Put em up!]

Allen & Overy and Freshfields both interview for Hong Kong at Vandy.
Overall though for that amount of money, Vandy is the way to go.
(another additional fact is the cost of living is probably lower in Nashville adding to your overall savings.)

[mnewboldc]

With that kind of money, Vandy in a heartbeat

[Kevin.]

I'll jump on the Vandy bandwagon (big surprise) - the money really makes it a very easy choice, since there's very little difference between the two schools as far as reputation and job placement.

[Rez.]

GULC has a nicer gym, but I would go to Vanderbilt.