SLP-Help with deciding on a program

[SLP12]

I am having a hard time deciding between programs. I finally have heard back from every school I applied to.

Here are my acceptances:

University of North Carolina Chapel Hill-I am an undergrad here and so I would get in state tuition, they also gave me $3000 to help with tuition. I really do like it here and the program, but I would also be interested in experiencing another program/part of the country

East Carolina University-not as recognized as UNC but in state tuition + $6000 per year on the condition of doing a masters thesis (they want to know in the next couple of days)

Teachers College-This one is most likely way too expensive and a stretch, but I do like the program. Also my bf will be up in NYC next year

University of Florida-My mom is down there so it is possible I might get in state, but I won't know for a while, also they said they didn't really have any funding this year. Also a good program.

University of Central Florida-mostly considering it due to the location near family, and possibility of a full scholarship (not sure when I will find out)

Emerson-also expensive and more of a stretch but also like the program

I got into University of South Carolina-Columbia, but they wanted me to give them a response within a week of finding out I was accepted. They wouldn't give any extensions. So I am pretty sure they gave up my spot. I wish all schools had to let us know about funding before we have to decide on a program. I am leaning towards UNC Chapel Hill but I would appreciate any advice you all could offer. Thanks!

[ROM]

I can't really speak to any of those programs, except I almost applied to UNC-Chapel Hill because it looked like a great program (just didn't want to move across the country).

My best advice would be to visit campuses if possible, and talk to as many current students and alumni as you possibly can in each program. Use google, facebook to track down students. I've had tremendous success getting helpful information from students in the programs I'm considering by facebook stalking and sending messages. They've all been really eager to tell me honestly what they think of their programs.

I'm also in the same boat, and have been agonizing for almost a month now about making the decision between a few schools. Some days I'm totally sold on one school...then something happens and I change my mind and am convinced another one would be better. To paraphrase some advice a good friend gave me about this decision.... Sometimes, the more you think about it, the harder the choice becomes. You can find positives and negatives for every side. Often it is better to ignore your thoughts, and pay more attention to what you feel. In other words, pay attention to the "energy" you feel surrounding a particular choice. How does it make you feel -- excited, anxious, indifferent, happy, sad, etc. Try and find a choice that makes you feel the best...cuz when you constantly think, you can rationalize anything. And keep in mind how lucky we are to be in a position where we have options; and if making this kind of decision is super hard, it probably means that all the places are similarly good and no matter what you'll pick, it'll end up favorably in the end.

Good luck!

[SLP12]

Thanks for your advice. I will try to contact some more current students from the different programs. I am definitely grateful that I have so many programs to choose from since I didn't really think I would be in this position. Good luck with your own decision making! Have you decided on a school yet?

[ROM]

Nope!! It's making me totally crazy I have four very different options, three of which are equally attractive. I need to follow my own advice and just go with my gut. I know it's easier said than done.