College!

[Kanamori]

The University of Pennsylvania is certainly one of the best universities in the States. For Political Science, I think Georgetown is one of the best. I'm sure both schools have excellent study abroad programs. I might be a bit biased, but Madison rulez. Getting AP tests under your belt is certtainly what I would suggest. For one thing, if you do the right ones, you can get the majority of your requirements out of the way. I took ten AP tests, started college as a sophomore, became a junior after one semester, and all of my requirements are done. And for another thing, if you're planning on going to a good global school -- honestly the best schools are in Britain and in the USA -- you will need to have about four or five AP tests under your belt that you scored fives on. If you are very focused right now, it is probably best to look at the specific programs that schools offer rather than just looking at how they rank overall. It also depends on what you are looking for in a campus, for instance I could never go to a nasty campus like MIT. Georgetown is probably the best choice if you are thinking of a career in Political Science, as I'm sure you could get a meaningful internship in the government there. Getting an internship in Parliament is probably the best thing I've done, and it was basically my AP record that got me the spot. Many people apply and a major politican can obviously write a good recommendation that carries tons of weight when applying for graduate school and maybe for a job in the future. Even if you change your major or intended major, a political internship like that can help you get just about anywhere.

Of course, with all things considered, Madison is the best Public school, and perhaps one of the best overall. With a wonderful skyline and architecture, being the land of Frank Lloyd Wright, the campus is beautiful. The people are wonderful and friendly, even if you're a Republican dinosaur. They're not pretentious as you will find in other top schools, you will not find people acting snooty, when they really have nothing to be snooty about.

Lancelot is right, if you want fun, come to London. Also, as I understand you like your nice shirts and ties, you will find the best in the world here. You cannot leave w/o getting some Jermyn street shirts and ties, renowned and sought after around the world.

[/rant]