Question by rayne2k5: Which school should I go to?
I just recently received my acceptance letters for a masters degree in mental health counseling with a lpc (licensed professional counselor) certification. Furthermore, while I have yet to hear back from Columbia University (acceptance letters are going out this week) I have been accepted to my local state university (where I currently attend), Lesley University in Cambridge Mass, and Fordham University. (all acceptance letters are for the same degree) However I am unsure which university to choose being that all of these graduate programs offer little to no financial backing other than loans. My local state university is going to cost me roughly 20,000 to complete my entire degree while Fordham is going to cost roughly 80,000 minus travel expenses because I will be commuting from CT to NYC once a week via train. While I understand that the obvious choice would be to go for the cheaper school I am wondering if spending the extra money to go to a more prestigious institution would be worth the cost and give me a better chance at gaining entrance into a PH.D program or if I should save money and then try to enter a PH.D. program.

Please serious answers and explanations only

Best answer:

Answer by carolyn
When making a decision, it is wise to,”Begin with the end in mind.”
(See:The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey)
1.Think about what you want to do and where or how you intend to work “after school.”
2. Your success is based on your work, networking and wise choices. (see: A Foot in the Door by Katharine Hanson Ph.D)
3. $ 80k in loans will take a very long time to pay back and will affect your ability to marry, purchase a home and the quality of your financial life in general. (see:The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsay)
4. Student loans cannot be discharged in bankruptcy and can rise to well over a $ 100k very fast (6%-8%)
5. Query: What is “Prestige” really worth?
You need to create a “Brand” for yourself to get into the Ph.D Program. Explore the Ph.D Program now and see what it takes to get into the program.

6. Finally, you need a comprehensive plan to pay for your advanced degree (s).
a) never take a private student loan. N.E.V.E.R.!!
b). Try to obtain a Fellowship and check “Forgiveness Programs” in your area of expertise. Co-operative Education Programs.
c). Look for tax deductions/credits (IRS.gov/ Publication 970)
d). Look for an employer who’ll pay off student loans as a part of your benefits package. (see:e-scholar)
GO TO THE STATE SCHOOL!

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