Should I spend a bit more for what I want?

[sacklunch]

Basically I had finally decided on BC for my MTS. I got a late offer from the Graduate Theological Union that is better, but I am unsure if I should even consider it. I already accepted at BC, which I thought I was cool with...but GTU came in and just offered me 75% off tuition, while BC is giving me 50% off. It's likely around 10k difference in what I will spend for the two year degree. I think academically they are equal, although outside of theology GTU doesn't have any degrees (which I don't think would matter, but just in case I decide to do something else, or have to do something else because the economy sucks).

Basically my question is, do you think it's "stupid" to spend another 10k on the degree, when they are relatively equal schools for what I want to study (which will eventually lead me into a phd, I hope).

thanks!

-Nick

Edited April 23, 2010 by wagnern

[Jezebel]

Is there anything else factoring in, like location, degree tracks, funding opportunities, etc?

If I were you, I would look closely at the faculty and see what they are involved in and try to get a feel for the atmosphere of your program. Are there any special programs or research positions available at one that are not at the other? For example, one school offer funding to go on an archeological dig in the middle east, another might have a faculty member researching native american mythologies. If all else is equal, there's at least a good chance that one faculty member will be doing something that trips your trigger and could lead you into bigger opportunities. BC might be better in terms of overall opportunities, but GTU might be better if you want something small and very focused.

You will have to pay for it ultimately, but you have to decide what your experience is worth to you. I took out a lot of loans to get my undergrad, but in doing so I had some wonderful experiences, and I don't regret transferring schools and having to take out a private loan. (Although maybe I will years down the road when I'm paying it off!). Bottom line is that I'm happy here, which is not something I could have predicted from stats about schools or financial aid. I decided on a whim to move halfway across the country and ended up doing something I never really expected, met my soulmate, and am feeling like I'm finally figuring things out in my life. Most importantly, it's not where you go, but what you make of what you're offered there. Follow your heart! You never know where you'll end up..

=)