Well, the biggest thing you need to consider is where you want to be. Carleton is very far away from your other choices. Since three of your four choices are somewhat clustered together, I assume you live closer to McMaster, Laurier, and Waterloo than to Carleton. The only thing I can gather from that is that you will be making a big move if you choose the latter. How would you feel about that? Would you be okay with moving so far away from home? If you have no problems, by all means continue considering it. If the idea makes you uncomfortable, I'd totally cross it off the list entirely because how you feel about the location is an important factor. You'll hate all four years if you don't like the geographical location and its distance from home.

Another thing to consider is what each of the schools have to offer. Things to consider are co-op, specializations, industry connections, etc. Also consider that sometimes courses with the same name can differ vastly from institution to institution. I recommend searching up the program requirements (not for admission, but the mandatory classes you are required to take in order to receive your degree) and comparing them. Make sure you read course descriptions of those requirements as well as the course descriptions of other courses each university offers. One institution may focus more strongly on one aspect than the other, or offer courses that you find more interesting or useful for your future. Depending on your interests, that may impact your decision.

Another important thing is to visit all of the campuses. Get an idea of the vibe and size of the campus. One program might be ideal, but if you hate the environment you're in, the years to follow will be a struggle. If you plan on doing residence, make sure you tour those to see where would make you more at ease and comfiest.

Good luck!

@napinhei & wingingit:
Thanks a lot! You've brought up a lot of good points -- I've decided to look at the schools individually first, specific to my program!

I'm leaning towards Laurier because of the renowned co-op opportunities. Anyone know about Laurier's reputation (specifically communication studies)??

Hey everyone,
I am a fourth year Laurier Hon. Communication Studies student with Business Management and Co-op Options. I LOVE LAURIER!!

Anyways, I cannot speak for the other schools you applied to, but I will share some stuff about Comm at Laurier. First and second year and very general and somewhat boring if you ask me -- large classes and dry content -- BUT IT GETS WAY BETTER. By third year, it is a complete shift -- with smaller class sizes, better profs and amazing classes like Digital Media, Television Studies, Advertising Studies, Visual Culture, Public Communication. The Comms dept is huge - so registering for classes can be a hassle as sooo many students want the good courses, and they fill up quickly.

If you are looking to do a Masters program, Laurier is great! However, if you expect to come out of your undergrad at WLU with skills in PR, Advertising, Radio, Media, etc... you will not.. you will come out knowing and understanding theories and case studies about these topics. This is why co-op is a great addition to the Comms degree. Laurier co-op placements can be anywhere you like in any field - my co-ops have been in the corporate affairs and public relations field (also, 80% of co-op placements are located in KW or Toronto).

My experience in the working world has also taught me that the place of your undergrad does not matter.. as long as it's Comm-specific and you get good grades. All of my co-op employers have looked at my transcript before hiring me.. so grades matter in first year (first year grades are also considered for the admission into the co-op program in the first place (as is extra-curriculars and interview) ) . .

Hope this helps.. CHOOSE LAURIER!