Transfer Student Position Advice

Basically I got accepted into NYU CAS/Econ for fall ‘26 and am interested in pursuing ER (although this could change). I’d enter as a sophomore so I can be on pace with recruiting in addition to being in NYC, which is where I’d ideally want to be due to the elite networking and vast opportunities available.

I knew when applying I wouldn’t be able to internally transfer to Stern and would get zero aid, bringing my annual COA (tuition, off-campus housing, food, etc.) likely above $110k+, which is not ideal. I have some sportsbook winnings where I could shave off a half a year of COA, but me+parents would have to take out loans, which, although they are fine with, I’m not sure if the ROI is worth it for a non-Stern degree.

On the other hand, I can go to UF for about $20k annual COA (in-state student). Although cheap, I would have to apply for spring ‘27, as I was rejected due to “capacity issues” that had nothing to do with my application, would be a business admin major instead of finance, start as a junior, and wouldn’t be able to do the MSF program.

^^^ To quickly note, I’d also apply to Columbia GS and UMich LSA for spring ‘27 but I didn’t want to make this post too long and am not sure if the difference is substantial enough to warrant paying OOS.

Friends and family have unanimously said to take NYU; however, I’ve seen often on here and other forums mention that non-Stern degrees are not worth the price, but I understand the opportunities and doors that can open from a school like NYU, but is it enough to warrant paying 6 figures plus annually, and how many of those opportunities are taken by Stern kids? While UF is a great school, I’m not sure how strong its presence is outside the Southeast if not in MSF/feeder clubs, as well as the extent of networking opportunities available.

I‘ve been back and forth about what I should do, so thought to look for some outside opinions from professionals in the space and would appreciate any advice!

tldr: Take a chance on NYU Econ full pay or take UF in-state with strings attached.