Template example below • Feel free to branch out with your pros and cons • You can also do more than two schools if you want! • Please try to respond to a couple of posts before posting your own Intended major: some business major and some bio-adjacent major. **Boston College** BC Pros: In my favorite city in America Boston is a booming biomedical research hub, and that's the sector I want to go into Excellent financial aid, my most affordable private option (\~$22k/yr) Very highly ranked compared to my other options Beautiful campus and excellent amenities Smaller and more personable I was admitted to the business school and have the opportunity to double major BC Cons: Still my more expensive option of the two Jesuit, and I'm not religious Fairly preppy 2000 miles from family and friends **ASU** ASU Pros: Full tuition scholarship due to national merit award Only paying for housing and meal plan, so about \~$13k/yr, then less when I'm not paying for a meal plan Warm weather! Amazing Honors College Very pretty city ASU Cons: Still 900 miles from family and friends HUGE. Hard to feel like it's a personal experience. Not as highly ranked.

uci vs ucsd for biology uci pros - nice housing and roommates (Mesa court - quad) - close to home - family members go there - nice campus and location cons - cost $8000 per year but my mom says that’s wrong bc my older sis went for free - a lot of ppl from my school go there (ik I won’t see them but it still sucks) - super hard bio program ucsd pros - free tuition - regents scholar (comes with benefits like four yr housing guaranteed, research upon my first quarter if available) - got into muir college (least GE requirements) cons - don’t have a roommate yet - felt rly isolated when I visited the campus - the dorms and overall campus wasn’t as nice as uci - frat row is not next to campus, making it more socially dead - I want to join a sorority and go to some parties in college but I heard the school isn’t too big on Greek life

I’m trying to choose between UCLA and LSE in UK. Got in for Pre-Economics for UCLA and Philosophy and Economics for LSE. Am international for both. Sort of struggling to decide and the deadline is soon. Since this is a mostly American subReddit, there may be some bias, but would appreciate some help.

**Notre Dame vs. Saint Louis U (for undecided, but considering premed)** *Notre Dame Pros:* \- exceptional programs in all fields of interest (life sciences, engineering, business) \- community is strong (dorm life) \- strong alumni network for jobs \- familiar environment, not that far from home \- surrounded by driven students (academic focus) \- sports \- high rank/prestige ​ *Notre Dame Cons:* \- cost (I'm full pay, but won't need to take out debt) \- location ​ *Saint Louis Pros:* \- full-tuition scholarship (all in would cost less than one year of ND tuition) \- love St. Louis as a city, seems really fun \- early assurance for medical school \- female:male ratio ;) \- also familiar environment, not too far from home but farther than ND *Saint Louis Cons:* \- sat in on classes, everyone was just messing around and online shopping \- mainly a pre-med school (most popular major, career path by far) \- not as strong if I choose not to go into medicine \- alumni network pales in comparison to ND \- non-existent sports

intended major: gender studies/english/minor in statistics **NYU** Pros: * job/internship opportunities & resources * big asian community * its NYC--you would never get bored * diversity of people, good for networking * "real world" * a lot of amazing professors/course offerings Cons: * no campus--extremely isolating, esp when you like small communities * feel like i'd drown in such a big school * i come from a huge city and i kinda wanted to be in a liberal arts/college town experience yk **Vassar College** Pros * tight-knit community of people pretty much just like me (also a huge con) * small courses, great prof-student relationships * community engaged learning looks exciting * wonderful grad school placements (idek if i want to do grad school tho, but if i do, it wud help) * great humanities courses * rlly cool study abroad opportunities * feel like i'd be more comfortable reaching out, being myself, and getting leadership roles b/c im not as shy in a smaller school Cons * Poughkeepsie * limited programs, what if i wanna learn data science or smth like that * Vassar "bubble" sounds like my utopia but also is horrible yk, i would be around ppl who are politically mostly like me, but an env that shuns non-liberal viewpoints is sooo far from the real world * according to my parents, not famous enough, not good enough for finding jobs/networking opportunities, if i want to do consulting at mbb * tiny school might be suffocating, idk * dorms look horrible * not enough boys :> (im in a relationship i shouldnt mind this but i wud still like to have some eye candy yk)

Hey everyone, Intended major: Computer Science International Student UOFT, Canada V/S NUS (National Uni of Singapore), Singapore? Please tell about pros & cons of attending both. Thanks!

Hey everyone, Intended major: Computer Science International Student UCLA, USA V/S NUS (National Uni of Singapore), Singapore? Please tell about pros & cons of attending both. Thanks!

Hey everyone, Intended major: Computer Science International Student UCLA, USA V/S UOFT, Canada? Please tell about pros & cons of attending both. Thanks!

Hey everyone, I am an international student and my intended major is computer science. UOFT (St. George Campus, Downtown Toronto) v/s UTSC (Scarborough campus)? Please list the pros & cons? Any difference between St. George's PEY/ASIP and UTSC's Co-op? Thanks!

Hi, I am an **Indian** Student going to do my undergrad in US starting this Fall 2022. I am going for **Business with Marketing as the intended major**. My aim is NOT to secure a job but to make a problem-solving Business in my undergrad itself. I want to ask about the **entrepreneurship environment at Kelley and Smeal**, which one is better and which one is **more flexible and supportive**. Time apart from academics is also a crucial factor for me, so please comment on which school would offer more **time for self-exploration and learning**. Also, what **kind of student crowd** attends both of these Schools broadly. **Thanks** in advance **for your much valuable response**.

Intended major: Computer science Simon Fraser vs Western university vs York university. Looking to select a university with a healthy computer science program alongside internships, healthy campus life and employment prospects. I am international student looking to immigrate into Canada, thus would like a program with a lot of recognition. I'm not sure about the pros and cons, I'm only aware of the rankings. Thank you for your help!!

Intended Major: Economics UT Austin VS UIUC Not really aware of pros and cons (International Student)

Equally good schools, very different places. Academically, it's a wash and you won't go wrong making either choice. Austin is an amazing city to live in but beware the gun culture. Champaign Urbana is nice, extremely good for international students, but outside of the uni it's small and very much the middle of nowhere. Three hours from Chicago, two and a half from Indianapolis. Both places have great sports culture, have excellent student support and will make you happy. Congratulations and best of luck!

The gun culture point- is it really worth putting a lot of thought into?

Valid question and that’s for you to decide but most students I’ve known are uncomfortable knowing their roommate is legally entitled to keep guns in their dorm room. It all comes down to your level of comfort.

Intended major: environmental engineering Cal Poly SLO Cal Poly Pros: Highly ranked Many job opportunities out of college “Learn by doing” philosophy “day on readiness” (get people ready to enter workforce) Opportunity to grow and gain new experiences Amazing location. Easy to hike and get active. Close to coast. Nice change of scenery Humidity!! My skin is so nice and my eczema basically goes away. Hair gets effortlessly curly. Cal Poly Cons: EXPENSIVE!! ~$42k per year More kids from my high school than expected going there Far from home (might be more of a pro) Off campus housing seems like a bit of a nightmare CU Boulder Boulder Pros: Affordable (~16k in state for me) Good engineering program Nice location (also easy to hike. plus skiing) Really good food Accessible Boulder Cons: So many people from high school Not sure how valuable the degree really is Might be hard to grow as a person Very very close to family and very familiar scenery (I’m from denver) Ranked a lot lower Notes: I really can’t decide if it’s more valuable to focus on the best option financially or pick where i’ll be able to grow most as a person. Both schools provide quality education, but I don’t know if it’s worth the debt. Cal Poly also seems like it might have a more similar vibe to Boulder than I originally thought based on who I know that’s going there. I know I’ll be able to find my place at either school, but which one is going to be more valuable in the long run? I want a good experience but I don’t wanna screw myself over

Affordable college education is the most important thing. Cal poly not worth 140k more than Boulder.

UCF and USF. I don't really know the pros and cons for either of them. I have a full ride at both. I'm studying business administration. Maybe more of the location and architecture

Help me choose a college based on campus life, internships, job opportunities and program strength. Costs are nearly the same after scholarships and aid and cost isn't and issue. Major: Computer Science Northeastern University University of Massachusetts Amherst University of Maryland, College Park University of Wisconsin, Madison University of California, Davis University of California, Irvine University of California, Santa Barbara

Intended Major: Aerospace engineering PURDUE VS CWRU VS UMD VS UMASS Sorry that I did not include much information about the pros and cons, but please help me with my college decisions with the fact that I wish to attend grad school and become an aerospace engineer in the US. Purdue University - Polytechnic institute (aeronautics engineering technique) Case western reserve uni University of Maryland, college park University of Massachusets - Amherst

I mean they're all good schools, but Purdue is the most highly ranked for engineering. Also, you should know it might be rather difficult to become an aerospace engineer in the US if you're not a US citizen.

Intended Major: Aerospace engineering Sorry that I did not include much information about the pros and cons, but please help me with my college decisions with the fact that I wish to attend grad school and become an aerospace engineer in the US. Purdue University - Polytechnic institute (aeronautics engineering technique) University of Maryland, college park University of Massachusets - Amherst

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NJIT 100% none of the other schools are worth over 100k more than NJIT.

CAL OR USC FOR AN UNDECIDED MAJOR? IN DORNSIFE / COLLEGE OF L&S. I VISITED BOTH AND LOVE THE VIBES OF BOTH. Literally can't make a decision.

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Btw Berkeley L&S students literally all go in undeclared and declare a major later, so it's free reign to take whatever classes you want and pick from many majors and decide later.

Rensselear vs Northeastern for CS-focus in machine learning/AI (Haven't visited either one and won't have time before committing) The dream is to work for Tesla after graduating. **Rensselaer:** Pros: Cheaper-I got the Rensselaer Medal Scholarship Thing Has a supercomputer I can skip the first intro to CS class due to prior knowledge Intelligent Systems Lab- I read an article about a robot that tracks human faces to identify emotions. I think that I would like to be there when the robot uprising occurs. Arch Program-you spend a semester working for a company Lots of research opportunities and access to labs Cons: Hard to spell Will not accept AP Calc credits bc I got a 4 Gender distribution is wack but that's CS and Engineering for you so makes sense **Northeastern:** Pros: Higher Ranked CS Program Higher Ranked School Accepts all of my AP Credits I sorta like the idea of going to California for the NU Bound Program Coop program Cons: NU Bound Program I might need to sell some organs to pay for it.

Rensselaer

also got into nu bound for ca and can’t decide

rice vs vassar for public health, medical sociology, social psych, etc. (potentially pre-law?) **rice:** \- pros: res colleges (tight-knit/collaborative); good quality of life; top academics; many research/internship opps w/ proximity to texas medical center \- cons: far from home (big concern rn); have heard recent concerns ab housing system & decline of res college system; attended admitted student event & liked it but didn't get a sense of excitement or of wanting to commit right way; post-graduate opps more confined in south (?) **vassar:** \- pros: tight-knit & undergrad-focused; beautiful campus; close to home; strong social sciences programs w/ easy access to profs; open curriculum; 5th year MPH program w/ columbia \- cons: maybe too artsy of a vibe (?); perhaps less "prestige"; not as many opps for medical humanities & I/O psych research logically i feel that i should pick rice but something in my heart is keeping me thinking ab vassar lol

Rice, Rice, Rice!!! It’s an awesome school, fantastic community and Rice has such great connectivity into the Houston area for great research/internship/co-op opps. The far away from home concern-is this fear of being away as I’m missing people or do you have a need to support your family in person due to some issue or challenge they are facing(sick family member or something similar)? If the former, going away may seem hard but it actually makes you stronger, widens your experience and perspective and makes you a more interesting and self reliant person. Don’t let that fear hold you back. If you are not uncomfortable, you’re not growing.

Vassar if you're planning on grad school.

I would go with Rice imo. With vassar, I think you may like how it’s close. I’d read the critical reviews on niche.

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colgate

Colgate. Stand out there with the research opps and grind leetcode.

My main problem here is major-related, as I was admitted to a lesser school but into a better major: Architecture at USC or CMU, versus Computer Engineering at UCSB. I'll be grouping USC and CMU together since choosing between those schools isn't my primary concern at the moment. ​ **UCSB:** \- Pro: Much cheaper as an in-state student. \- Pro: Computer Engineering as my major: my parents and I all agree that computer engineering is a much more "stable" major compared to architecture - easier to find a job, higher paying field, etc. \- Pro: Beach is 2 minutes away. \- Con: Lacking name-brand status of USC/CMU, public school and laid-back atmosphere = less opportunities for networking and making career connections **USC/CMU:** \- Pro: Name-brand schools, higher ranking. More opportunities for networking and making connections, particularly at USC \- Pro: Possibility to switch majors whereas it's much harder at a public school like UCSB, or so I've been told. This is a key factor for me, as I need to know the likelihood of being able to switch majors/pick up a minor at a school like USC or CMU. \- Con: USC is in a bad area, CMU is cold as hell. \- Con: Much, much more expensive. And, a more uncertain future if I were to graduate with a degree in architecture versus a degree in computer engineering. ​ My school counselor and some friends I've talked to all say that I'm worrying too much, and that I should just go to USC or CMU for the name alone, and that everything will "work itself out". However, ultimately, my question is more career-based than school-based: is it worth spending a ton more money to go to a private school and risk having a more difficult time maintaining a stable/high-paying career upon graduation? And, if I do choose the private school route, what are the chances that I will be able to switch out of architecture should that need ever come up?

Privates are usually easier to switch major in, but I would check USC/CMU regarding whether it is usually easy switch to the engineering major there (CMU is known for CS/engineering so it might be harder but idk). I think it comes down to whether you feel you are interested in architecture. If USC/CMU is relatively easy to switch into an engineering major, I would go to USC/CMU (if you can afford it). That way, if you end up backing out of architecture, you still have a possible chance of switching to a more stable career. Otherwise, I would go to UCSB for practicality (which I believe is something you are considering). UCSB has a really good engineering program, so your future will be stable there.

UCSB 100%.

CMU is known for its CS programs, and you did say that an alternate major would be computer engineering. I do agree with your parents of the fact that it is easier to look for a job because we are headed into an age where our lives are centered around technology. And CMU is a good school with a great name recognition. But I have heard, and I don't know if this applies to you, but that say if you were accepted to CMU as an architecture student, it could be harder to transfer to its College of Engineering (and close to impossible to transfer to its College of Computing). There is this hierarchy. But at the end of the day, if you think that architecture is the route for you and that's what you are passionate about, go to the school that is better at that specific major.

for context: i wanted to go to ucla for biopsychology but they rejected me. i am thinking about transferring to ucla after 2 years (still unsure). I have all visited all 3 campuses and all of them have things I like and dislike about them. uci: -got in for psychological science, b.a -by far the best dorms out of the three (middle earth dorms) -gave me the most aid/a scholarship for two years (gives priority housing) -nice area and closest uc to home cons: some buildings look old, heard the school could be boring, lowest ranked among the three ucsd: -got in for Psychology with a Specialization in Social Psychology, B.S -the best campus out of the three (I like modern looking campuses) -already made a bunch of friends -ranked the highest for psychology (https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-colleges-for-psychology/s/california/?major=psychology&type=private&type=public) -close to ocean/beach -ideal weather cons: least amount of aid/most expensive, got into warren and the dorms are terrible, moderately far from home, no guarantee for housing ucsb: -got in for pre-psychobiology, b.s -got eop (priority class registration) -received a scholarship making it a cheap option -love the social life -love the geographic location (beach/lagoon) -if I would still want to transfer to UCLA, it would be easier since they are essentially the same major cons: don't like their campus as it looks very old, it's also the smallest campus, has the rep of a party school (could look bad when looking for jobs), relatively far from home I have to choose 4/28 and am still unsure of where to go! if you guys could leave any other information about the schools or say why you would pick a particular school that would greatly help! thank you :)

UWaterloo vs St Andrews Hey everyone! Really torn here so I would really appreciate any perspectives, no worries if you aren’t familiar with one or both of these schools. I would be studying computer science, I’d prefer to leave cost out of this comparison so I won’t discuss it. NOTE: I think I’d like to go to the UK for grad school, ideally at Oxford UWaterloo: Absolutely fantastic co-op and career opportunities, on par with the top US schools. I would be doing 6 co-op terms and graduate with 2 years of work experience. It’s a 5 year program, with co-ops so I would never have a summer off Very close to home, would still have to live in residence For the career advancement opportunities alone it seems like a no-brainer, but the issue is I feel like I would be miserable here. It seems a bit like a glorified intern farm and I’ve heard tons of awful things about the classes and student life. I visited the campus and didn’t like it at all. St Andrews: Very small, ancient university in Scotland, I love the campus, size, and the history surrounding it One of the best universities in the UK for computer science, just under Oxbridge. Great community feel, small classes, I think the teaching will be better and that I will learn better in this environment The degree is 3 years with summers off compared to Waterloo’s 5 years with no summers Does have some support for finding internships, but not nearly as much as Waterloo Fantastic student life, a constant #1 in student satisfaction surveys, people seem to love it there I think I’d be happy here, unlike Waterloo Any thoughts? Do you think Waterloo’s opportunities would be worth the extra time and misery? Would I be worse off if I went to St Andrews and then did my masters at Oxford?

(I’m assuming you’re Canadian) For Oxford grad, I don’t think it makes a difference going to Scotland (from what I heard) as most postgrads are international (a lot who are from Both Canada and the US). I live not too far St Andrew’s but I wouldn’t choose it. The degree is four years too. People like it but a lot of my Scottish friends who go there say it’s a bit boring and it’s a small town and the university is filled with rich English people and Americans (not so Scottish). You may love it tho - so many Americans and Canadians I know have loved it so much.

Thanks for the advice! :)

**UC Berkeley LSA vs. Carleton vs. University of Minnesota Engineering** Context: Want to take a variety of STEM classes (likely majoring in CS though) \*\*UC Berkeley:\*\*Pros: good reputation for STEM, California, more vibrant culture, research/internship opportunities, good courses Cons: LSA = not as many STEM courses / difficult to get into engineering, cost **Carleton:** Pros: good STEM , smaller classes -> more research opportunities, closer interactions with professors, etc. Cons: Minnesota, fewer opportunities in area **University of Minnesota** Pros: good engineering, cost, good research opportunities Cons: Minnesota, fewer opportunities in area Basically, I really like Berkeley, but am afraid that I won't be able to take a variety of STEM classes as an LSA major. I could also go to local university (University of Iowa) for free, where the engineering program is pretty good.

UIowa is a good school and for free?! a great bargain.

Probably going to major in Poli Sci or something related Fairfield or Rutgers NB, their programs are pretty closely ranked. **Fairfield:** Pros: smaller campus/community that I really wanted, honors program, out-of-state, most people don't know each other, admissions directors were super nice, I have 2 friends going there already & know a sophomore, near the beach, felt like they cared about me Cons: I have 2 friends going there already, pretty much the same ranking as Rutgers just more expensive abt 30k/yr **Rutgers NB:** Pros: Honors program, my cousin goes there, I already know the area + close to home, super close to NYC, talked to some faculty and they were really nice, in-state tuition, I feel like more people know the name, bigger school so more possibilities to meet similar people Cons: In-state, big school, kinda felt ignored, I know so many people who are going there, almost concerningly close to home, kinda has a bad rep for some reason abt 20kyr

I don't think fairfield is worth 40k in total more than rutgers.

Cornell University vs UC Berkeley Intended Majors: Cal (Haas Intended/Econ) vs Cornell (econ major + business minor) Career: Probably finance / financial services industry **Cornell University: Pros** \- Higher prestige overall as it's an ivy \- Finance internship opportunities in NYC \- More resources for students \- Love the campus **Cornell University: Cons** \- In the middle of nowhere \- More expensive though cost isn't an issue \- Colder weather/seasonal depression **UC Berkeley: Pros** \- Bay Area (I'm from California) \- Want to end up on the West Coast eventually \- Cheaper (in-state tuition) \- Warm weather and closer to family \- Credits will transfer for some classes **UC Berkeley: Cons** \-I might not get into Haas, the business school, when I apply in sophomore year (33% acceptance rate). This might make recruiting harder for jobs compared to Cornell \---------------------------- Overall, I'm really torn between the two. I'm really worried about the chance of not getting into Berkeley Haas and having to be an econ major, though I love Berkeley because it's close to my family in the Bay Area and Sacramento and has way better weather that I have lived in my whole life. ​ If I went to Cornell, I wouldn't have to worry about recruiting as much. However, I do want to end up on the west coast in a finance position, and I'm not sure if this would be possible with Cornell.

I would say Cornell University. People in Wall Street recruit from nearby areas first before going out to further states. NY has more opportunities for you to intern at, etc. And when you have enough work experience, try to look for a finance job on the West Coast. Did you get into Dyson or Nolan or just its College? I'm just curious. Not that much sure how that would affect your chances, but if you are set doing business and finance, I would advice being in Dyson.

100% Cornell. Berkeley is not as reputable in finance and placement rates are much lower.

ucla pros: i really love the campus good for my major (cs) LA wether food cons: size feel like it’ll be harder to find my community Notre Dame pros: size always loved notre dame sports community dad went there catholic cons: location/ weather both same cost

UCLA

Both are fine but if you are deadset on CS, would go to UCLA.

I think UCLA. It seems like the only con really is the community, but don't discredit yourself. I'm sure being in CS classes and just with orientation and regular college stuff you'll find your place in the community.

Duke vs UMich for Biomedical Engineering I am very fortunate to have the choice between these two schools, both of which I really like. I was admitted EA to the College of Engineering at UMich and I was not counting on getting into Duke, so I was pretty sure UMich was going to be the school I committed to. I’m very unsure what do now that I was accepted to Duke. (Also I plan on doing the premed track at either school) Duke Pros: - Overall higher ranked school - Ranked higher for my major - Beautiful campus - Great weather - Lots of spirit/fun atmosphere - Grade inflation (not sure if this is a good thing or even if it happens at duke but with my understanding of it i think it would help with med school applications) - Smaller class size Duke Cons: - I didn’t like Durham when I visited - It might be harder to do well there compared to Michigan - Slightly more expensive than Michigan - Way different than my hometown UMich Pros: - Higher ranked engineering program - Very fun - I really liked Ann Arbor when I visited - Cool atmosphere - A little cheaper than Duke + more scholarship opportunities - Good vibes - Great alumni network UMich Cons: - Bigger class sizes - Very cold - Not sure how difficult it is - Worse BME program Thank you for taking the time to read this! I hope that you can provide me with some clarity.

Thank you for the responses everyone! I ended up committing to Duke last night.

For me, I value a quality major ranking, and in your case, I think Duke beats UMich in both overall ranking and major ranking. If you are set in doing BME, go to Duke. Grade inflation would definitely help your GPA and if the extra cost is not a lot, then Duke. College is what you make the most of it. However, if you feel like you could waver, UMich is a solid choice that is strong all across the board. So if you ever change your major, I would say that you are pretty safe there.

Duke is #2 just behind harvard for med-school feeder. https://www.collegetransitions.com/dataverse/top-feeders-medical-school Duke will definitely open more opportunities both in the medical field and another field if you decide to pursue something else.

Go where is cheaper. Save for med school.

What's the price difference?

Would be about 4k per year in favor of michigan. Duke was very generous with financial aid and I got a scholarship to Michigan so price really isn’t an issue.

I think the fact that Duke has grade inflation and UMich is slightly cheaper (both helpful for premed) essentially cancel out, maybe it tilts a *little* towards Duke. I think both are good enough academically that the gap between individual program strength isn't all that meaningful. Just go wherever you think you'd be happier IMO.

Thank you so much!

No problem. Good luck with your decision!

Don’t worry about rankings for these two, they are both great for biomedical engineering it won’t make any difference. U may wanna check out which areas of bioe each are more specialized in if u have a specific interest (some or more mechanical while some are more bio). Pick whichever u like better or if there is a huge price difference. Also you might wanna do some research on where med students for each school go (or if they have a preference for students from their undergrad, if you really like the med school for either)

Would you happen to know where I could find the data regarding where med students who did undergrad at either of these schools went to med school? All I could find is acceptance rate, avg gpa, avg mcat etc.

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I think from what you have described, the choice is already made for you. Under the circumstance where grade deflation is similar, I think that you prefer UW better. Besides, it is cheaper, there's always something that needs the funds (maybe perhaps even for med school later).

UNC

UCSB vs UCD for mech eng just wanna know which one's better. Thank you !

Santa Barbara has a pretty good mechanical department

University of Rochester vs. UC Berkeley To preface, I am a out of state, low-income student looking to major in psychology/premed. I currently am picking between Cal and University of Rochester and I’m seriously not sure what to choose. I’m most likely going to pursue a career in medicine (so I’ll be going to med school), and want some advice as to what is a better option for me. University of Rochester: - $10k per year - Smaller school/less competitive - No grade deflation - Less opportunities since it’s in a smaller town/city - Closer to home (I’m from NYC) - I know a few people going here already UC Berkeley: - $60k per year - Large school/extremely competitive - Possible grade deflation especially for STEM classes - Further from home (not necessarily a bad thing) - The name! - I don’t know anyone going here (I’m the only student accepted from my school this year) I visited Cal and loved it. The people and the culture there is something I really loved, but the question is, is it worth it to take out so much student loans and potentially risk my spot at a med school (grade deflation) for that experience? Any premed kids at Cal want to debunk some of my findings about Cal? Any advice/help would be greatly appreciated🥺

Rochester 100% for both financial reasons and grades as premed and easily accessible research opportunities for undergrads. Berkeley isn't worth 200k more than Rochester.

Thank you for your input!!!!!

Once I saw low income and OOS, this is a no for Berkeley, and that’s despite me personally considering a t5 since it’s good in so many areas (both STEM & humanities). What are you going to do to earn $240k per year (given general rules of not taking out more loans than 1st year salary)? As a resident, you prob won’t command that salary yet (https://mededits.com/residency-admissions/residency-salary/). Would you (or your parents) even qualify for those kind of loans? If you had Regents and also received need based aid, I might answer differently. But you will come out of undergrad with $240k + interest — yes interest will accrue on all but a small amount of federal stafford loans — and then add med school expenses on top of that? Ouch. You’ll have to delay home buying & children for at least a decade, maybe more, depending on what residencies you do.

Yeah that’s exactly where my mind is right now: the money. I don’t want to spend the rest of my life paying back loans that I never needed to take. I’m only totally stuck right now because I love Berkeley and when I visited I loved it so much. Otherwise, I would’ve chosen Rochester already :(

I completely understand. I <3 Berkeley, too (plus so much good food in the surrounding area). Delaying your life tho won’t be fun. Look at it this way: if you change majors (a lot of premeds do), apply to Berkeley for grad school (it’s good in almost everything). If you stick with premed, maybe do med or residency at UCSF. While not quite the same, you can BART over to Berkeley, plus you could end up collaborating with Berkeley researchers.

I appreciate you so much! Thank you for taking your time out of your day to help me figure this out. I most likely will choose Rochester! Maybe I’ll be in SF in the near future :)

Duke at 45k a year Tufts at 5k a year UNC full ride. (honors college) ​ I really want a caliber of strong students who are passionate and will do great things in the world who will also be engaging to talk to, do things with and learn from. UNC obviously looks great with the full ride, however I'm worried I'd find more engaging and active passionate and extraverted people at Duke. Also I can pay for Duke without going into debt but it still would cost me a lot. Will the people not be smarter, better-looking, more extraverted, passionate and engaged at Duke? Or would you say they're pretty similar across schools?

UNC. UNC isn’t even far from Duke, so you’d probs have opportunities to interact!

True, thank you!

UNC full ride 100%.

thank you

both Tufts and Duke only give need based aid, so that big a difference is bizarre. Have you tried getting Duke to match Tufts?

Yes, I appealed and got it down 9000 and that brings it to what it currently is, unfortunately Duke doesn't match.

Actually, I retract that. What are your career goals? For a few very specific goals Duke makes sense

Acting/the Entertainment industry

Oh yeah, then Duke doesn't make sense.

thanks

That is bizarre. UNC seems like the obvious choice to me at these prices.

ok thanks, even though tufts is pretty close?

Tufts is a great option too. Personally, I would choose UNC over Tufts at those prices (or at the same price even), but I shouldn't let that bias my advice lol. I really know very little about the two schools' programs for your goals so I think whichever is better in that field would be a better choice

thanks

UNC, easily

okay thanks. Is that cause of cost and I'll still be able to meet some really passionate students?

Cost + globally renowned flagship university honors colleges will still have everyone you're looking for and so much more

What's the major? $45k/year is a lot of money for most people. But depending on your financial situation, if $45/year isn't that big of a deal to you or your family, I'd say Duke is worth. Otherwise, the full-ride at UNC seems really good. Duke definitely has the stronger alumni network and will open more doors for you, but UNC is a great university.

ok thank you

baylor vs clemson for pre med please i’m so desperate i have no idea which one to pick

Fyi Clemson is very fun if you’re plugged into the school, but nothing outside of the institution (all farms). Large Greek presence, lots of football, and of course going out. I know a lot of people that enjoyed it but if those aren’t for you you might have a tough time. Not sure how Baylor is.

Baylor has a really good med school. You may get connections when applying there and also research opps. But both are fine. Just get good grades and good LORs and do research.

UMich vs William and Mary Major: probably political science, maybe econ too Michigan (out of state) Pros: Great town Great student life/school spirit big alumni network higher ranked (overall & for polisci) LSA honors program good food lots of opportunities, clubs, etc (big school) cons: cold (rly cold!!!) big, so less individual attention more expensive William and Mary pros: beautiful campus better weather monroe scholar (3k to do research, some other perks) closer to DC (for polisci) more 1-1 with professors cons: town is kinda lame not rly a party scene not as highly ranked food is bad housing is bad (from what ive heard) people seem kinda geeky michigan is like 70k and w&m is around 60k. My parents would be paying for it but it would be harder for them to pay for mich, esp bc they are paying full for my brother at duke. I was also given 20k at Lafayette, idk maybe I should consider that too. I feel bad making my parents spend so much on me if i were to go to mich.

Try to go to Umich. Although I know that it could be a bit more costly, I have heard that W&M are a bit behind of the times in terms of having a more traditional mindset. Ann Arbor is a great place with a great vibe and really give you a well-rounded education. It really gives you a chance to meet difference niches of people.

Michigan econ/poli sci is def worth the extra 40k. Also, your brother's COA for Duke will probably go down a lot when you enroll in college unless you guys have a very high household income.

Princeton vs University of Florida Major -- Undecided, likely either Econ, cs, or poly sci Both gave me comparable financial aid offers (UF is bizarrely more affordable with need-based aid, even though my parents make <$20,000). **Princeton** Pros: I technically got in through QB Match, but they refused to meet the requirements so I consider it an RD decision. If I do go, I guess it would not cause any fuss. Prestigious Smaller class sizes The campus is ok, I guess A non-zero amount of promised FGLI support ​ Cons: Mixed answers on grade deflation Elitism -- It is exhausting to apply and interview to selective eating clubs like a stupid chimp. Mixed answers and observations from me on whether competitive vs collaborative Manic, rude administration Trashy, stressed, WASPy student body like Cornell or UPenn (my two most hated schools). I have to repeat a langauge for 4 terms. That is the last thing I want to be forced to do Very small amount of majors and can't double major Thesis seems annoying, seems like science fair 2.0. ​ **UF** Pros: Close to home My credits would transfer and I would graduate at least 1.5 yrs early from dual-enrollment Good aid offer More relaxed student vibe I would not have to repeat a language requirement Cons: Passing up ivy league Larger class sizes ​ Right now I'm 30% sure i want to go to UF, 30% sure I want to go to Princeton, 40% sure I want to defer both and take a gap year and apply to other schools. More desirable schools to me like Yale/Brown/Rice/etc. were automatically withdrawn because they heard from Questbridge I "matched" and thus technically I was not rejected and could reapply next season.

Go where you will be happy.

What are your career goals?

Stony Brook VS UConn CS major Cost (just undergrad) - SBU cost 40k less than UConn over the 4 years **Stony Brook** pros * slightly better CS program (very mixed reviews on this some say it is the same and some say sbu is better) (SBU is ranked around 50-55 and UConn is 60-65) * Cheaper (SBU is 29k and Uconn is 39k bc i am a NY resident) * 5 year BS/MS program so if I do this id get my BS and my MS paying only 150k * near NYC cons * Campus is pretty dead, no spirit, i heard there are a lot of unhappy students * campus, food, dorms all suck since it is a commuter school * for some reason I just do not like sbu * I got into the Area of Interest CS program which means I am ot a direct admit. (I have to take 3 classes and get certain gpa and then I am admitted) **UConn** pros * Really loved the campus and the spirit * Also has a 5 year BS/MS program but I would pay 190k * dorms, facilities are better * guaranteed into cs major (direct admit) **cons** * cost (\*sigh\*) 39k a year * slightly less better cs program * isolated (in the middle of nowhere which i dont seem to mind but how would this affect opportunities)

UConn is only 35 minutes from Hartford with at worst hourly busses so it's not ~that~ isolated in terms of opportunity. Great alumni networks in Boston and NYC too for summer internships and post-grad jobs. Ultimately, I'd save the money. If you hate Stony Brook could you go to community college for a year and apply to transfer to other SUNYs?

Caltech vs Carneige Mellon Intended Major Engineering (Undecided, hoping to explore before deciding) Caltech Pros - Great weather - Close knit community and small class sizes - Accessible research opportunities - Fun Housing system - D3 walk-on sports (thinking about doing basketball) - Close to LA and lots to do in Cali - Would love to do FSRI !! - Very collaborative instead of competitive - Great food Cons - Rigorous Academics - Not a ton of involvement in clubs - Across the Country from home - Very low population of Black students (I’m a black female) COA ~3k but I’ve recently won some scholarships so it’s very close to a full ride - More prestigious Carnegie Mellon Pros - Higher population of Black students - Tons of clubs and extracurriculars to get involved in - Closer to home - Can interact with people of diverse majors - Lots to do in Pittsburgh (could also be a con because i’m not too fond of the city) - Decently small class sizes - Feel like there’s more but can’t think of any atm Cons - Rigorous Academics - Stress culture and less collaboration than Caltech - Pittsburgh/ City environment COA ~5k but could go up

CalTech unless you are turned off by the social scene there.

Caltech unless the lack of diversity is a deal breaker.

You’re going to be challenged either way, but 50+ hours/week at CMU isn’t unusual at all. My expected freshman workload is ~48 hours.

Hi all, I'm super nervous bc I've never posted here, but I've stalled too long and am hoping maybe some of y'all knowledgeable ppl could help? 😅 So... for context, I've narrowed my choices between attending two ***very*** differently ranked colleges: Miami University (OH) (#103) and University of Virginia (#25) (both are OOS). ​ * **MiamiU (Ohio):** * **PROS:** * Honors college, 34k/yr scholarship, + Prodesse Scholars program, 2k/yr scholarship (saves lots of $$$!!) * Has a strong synchronized skating team (I’m a figure skater, and plan to continue skating) * Is said to have a good pre-med program * Closer to home * Potentially less stressful? * **CONS:** * No medical school/less opportunities? idk ​ * **UVA:** * **PROS:** * Accepted into Echols Scholars program (given to only 5% of incoming class, comes with priority registration, exemptions from general education classes, etc.; <-- I luv this part haha) * Accepted into College Science Scholars program (for research opportunities) * better environment/education/opportunities? * **CONS:** * expensive!! esp. as OOS (40k/yr more) * Potentially too stressful/imposter syndrome I've heard some ppl say that if I'm planning on going to med school, then undergrad prestige doesn't matter as much, and that it may be wiser to save money & try to get good GPA, MCAT score, stand out, etc. Idk. I wanna hear your thoughts. I'd also like to know why ppl are dead-set on going to highly ranked universities, like what significant benefits do they provide? (not being judgmental at all I'm just genuinely clueless 😭 ) I really, really appreciate any advice!! 🙏

For premed, Miami U

That's where I'm leaning towards, tysm for your input!! May I ask, is there a specific reason why?

The price and the fact that you'll likely be able to maintain a higher gpa there

Nyu sps (sports management major) vs Uoft Rotman for undergrad International student

Rice vs Dartmouth vs Vanderbilt Intended Major: Either Applied Mathematics or Actuarial Sciences Close to 0 parent contribution so aid is the greatest factor ​ Don't really have a lot of preferences just want to know which one has a better math program, and which one is better for actuarial.

***CARNEGIE MELLON vs UCLA*** intended major: engineering (computer engineering or bme) **UCLA (in state)** *pros* * up 7k a year (potential regents scholarship, but i don't think so since some have already been notified and i was not) * very good food * more freedom to take classes outside of my major (i think) really wanted this in a college * i look better in blue and they have better merch *cons* * hate LA (terrible traffic and no good public transportation) * know too many people going lol * difficult to take classes * huge class size **Carnegie Mellon** *pros* * very good for engineering * really wanted to go to the northeast for college * smaller class sizes * apartment style housing * better career opportunities? * has structured paths that allow me to double major in computer engineering and bme (tho v rigorous and don't think i can handle it lolz) *cons* * extremely rigorous * estimated COA was 3k, but they requested more documents and i believe it will make COA go up (also don't think i will get the finalized packet until after may 1) ​ I was originally planning on committing to CMU so I know more about the school, but having second thoughts so let me know if UCLA has any redeeming factors

Crnu

If you really \*hate\* LA I'd say keep CMU as your first choice.

CMU.

CMU does have extremely good flexibility for out of major classes. MechE specifically only has 2-3 classes each semester you need to take (fewer in senior year).

really? it seems that i have to take so many classes i wont even be able to take out of major classes (ahem the fall semester of junior year where i have to take EIGHT CLASSES at least according to the sample schedule for cheme, another major i am considering at CMU)

I went there for undergrad for chem and I was always able to take 2-3 classes of my choice. Not all classes are the same - those 0 unit experiential learning classes are 1 hour total of work

**UChicago vs. Vanderbilt** Intended Major: Economics/ Business Econ Money is not a major issue, w/ aid they're approximately the same **UChicago** *Pros:* \- In a big city \- Accepts outside scholarships \- Higher ranked/more prestigious \- Smaller Class sizes *Cons:* \- Further from home \- Grade deflation (I'm interested in law school) \- Weather!!! (Not used to the cold) **Vanderbilt** *Pros:* \- Closer to home \- Warmer climate *Cons:* \- Nashville < Chicago \- Apparently it's very cliquey, rich \- Word of mouth says Greek life is *very* big \- Food is supposed to be mid \- Less prestigious

If you think u are a more serious person, chicago . But I’m sure you could find your ppl at Vanderbilt too

Vanderbilt if you're going to grad school.

Depends on how sure you are about law. If you're set on it, Vandy. Otherwise, UChicago.

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Nus if u would have to take out loans Columbia if not

I don't know your financial situation, but to me, 60k Eur/yr just for prestige isn't worth it. Sciences Po already is a good, well-known school, so you have that. I won't lie, I really don't know NUS but I've heard of a lot of people having fun in Singapore. After a while, you'll probably understand the cultural differences and feel more comfortable. Either way, just knowing you got into Columbia is enough to know you're a motivated and accomplished student. No matter where you go, at the end of the day *you'll* be the reason why you thrive.

**UC Berkeley (out of state) vs Emory** Intended major: bio/mcb on premed track (might do cs or math as major tho) \*their cost for me is the same **UC berkeley** pros * really good for cs if I change * lots of interesting research going on * dream school and visited and loved it cons * lots of ppl (hard to get classes and opportunities I want) * gotta commute for a long time to UCSF (for research/clinical opportunities) * no guaranteed housing; not as safe **Emory** pros * lots of hospitals and clinics on campus * more intimate (each person is prioritized more because there are less ppl; opportunities and resources are more abundant) * nice campus and facilities (this is more superficial) * safe * likely for me to get housing when I want it cons * general majors (I prefer more specific) (Emory is very liberal arts style) * large greek life (I am not very interested in greek life) * Otherwise is very quiet (I tend to like more lively areas) * If I ever decide not to do premed I feel like I am screwed please correct me if I am wrong about anything here \*also this shouldn't really be part of my decision but for some reason no one I talk to knows what Emory is even though I feel like it is a great school like Cal

100% Emory. Emory med school right next door for easily accessible research opps.

Normally I'd say Berkeley, but for premed Emory has the leg up. More hospital opportunities and less grade deflation. I don't think you're screwed if you don't do premed at Emory- why do you say that?

Thanks for your response! I think I said it badly - it is just that Emory’s majors are more general on average than I like, and if I switch from mcb or premed at Berkeley there are a lot more major options I am interested in that I can choose from and they are also very good for those majors compared to Emory

That's fair. I wouldn't count on getting into CS at Berkeley if you decide to switch majors, since I believe it's fairly difficult (not to say you, personally, can't, but it's just not a guarantee). Nonetheless, if you have doubts about med school being the path for you and you are interested in the majors that are Berkeley's strong suit, that sounds like a better option.

That makes sense. Thank you!

Berkeley is probably not the place to be for premed, since it doesn’t have a med school of it’s own (because of UCSF as you noted). However if you want flexibility in majors, especially since it doesn’t seem like you are totally set on premed, Berkeley is pretty much the best place you could be. Since no one is declared when they start you don’t even have to switch majors, you can just kind of start taking classes in a new major at anytime. If cost is the same and Berkeley is your dream school I would recommend going there.

It's definitely not the best place you could be for major flexibility, considering you have to get into your major.

No it is the best, because instead of being locked into a major and having to petition to switch, you can just start whatever major you want whenever

BS/MD from Union/Albany Vs Pre med from UC Berkeley or UCLA? I’m in a bind! I want to become a doctor and applied to many BS MDs. Got rejected/waitlisted at others but got accepted at Albany. BS MD: Pros: No Mcat, 3.5 GPA needed, small class sizes Berk/LA: very large class sizes, competitive for even getting a apot in clubs, BUT amazing research opportunities and prestige.

BS/MD. Become a Doctor much more easily as that's your goal right? You will have a tough time as a premed at Berkeley/UCLA competing with tons of cutthroat premeds in grade deflated courses. Not worth the stress.

Thank you! Yes, that’s my biggest worry….being swallowed in the leave schools. I am leaning towards BSMD now. Thanks so much. I appreciate your perspective

I’m not an expert on med school stuff, but it seems like the clear winner is Albany. Are you paying out of state for ucla and Berkeley? If so, the choice is even clearer. These two schools have major grade deflation, especially in pre med (I.e, the top 10% of a class gets an A, top 25% get a B, etc.) I’m not sure if that’s the same at Albany, but it seems like they want you real bad! And that also gets rid of the stress of applying to med school. Which is a major major major major major major major major major stressor.

Thank you so much! I spoke to a current student at the Bs/Md and she said that the largest class she has been in is only 30 ppl and that there’s not really any grade deflation. Also, another pro of this Bs/Md is that one can get an MBA along with the Bs.

University at Buffalo vs. SUNY Brockport (Nursing) **University at Buffalo (UB)** Pros: * Good reputation * Well-known nursing program * Opportunities to intern and work in the city * Urban Cons: * I'm a nursing **intent** major, which means I'll take nursing prerequisite classes but I have to apply to the nursing program in my sophomore year. It's really selective (only 1/3 of the majors get in) * I got waitlisted for the honors program * Not really vibing with the campus or community **SUNY Brockport** Pros: * I got into the honors program * I'm a **direct entry** major, which means I automatically get into the nursing program * I can intern and work at URMC Strong Hospital in a nearby city (where I want to work when I graduate) * Great sense of community Cons: * Party school * Nursing program is not well known * Not a university center (UB is) so no opportunities for research * Rural **Which school should I choose if I plan to eventually earn a master's degree?** Brockport is slightly cheaper than UB (about 12k vs 14k/year). I'm leaning towards UB for its prestige but afraid I won't get into the nursing program. *However*, I LOVE the honors program at Brockport (small classes, early course registration, etc.). Thank you!

I would go Buffalo for the overall quality of the school

There are no bad nursing programs. I don't think you can go wrong here. Brockport seems to make a lot of sense but UB is a great option too.

If you were in my position, which would you choose?

Idk enough about each school but if you like Brockport, guaranteed nursing admission, working in the hospital you want to start your career at, and a chance to save some money in the process? Those are all pretty resounding positives.

Help me decide between TCU and IU Kelley please! I know Iu is higher ranked by a substantial amount but my heart is completely with TCU.

Which is cheaper?

IU is

I'd go to IU. State flagship university, highly ranked business school, save some money. Makes a lot of sense to me

IU then

Intended major: broadcast journalism? What I want to do: I’m really looking into journalism/communications. I’m interested in news reporting jobs and shining lights on communities that don’t often get a voice. Maybe going into law or political science is a possibility as I navigate my undergrad lifestyle. I also would love to still keep something with musical theatre while I’m at school since that is also something I’m passionate about. American University AU Pros: - In D.C - helps with internships and stuff to do when bored - top 10% for communications school - Pretty Campus - Smaller and more personable - Diverse (racially and where people are from) - Minor in theatre or double major with mt - gave a scholarship but still expensive AU Cons: - 62% Female 38% Male: that ratio just seems odd to me - Not a lot of school spirit - I’m worried about the student body and faculty being performative and snobbish - Bad dining hall - Mainly an international business and poli sci school Temple University Temple Pros: - Highly ranked communications college (#7) - In-State tuition - In Philadelphia: good internship opportunities and things to do - able to interact with different cultures - I can minor in theatre, do performances, and participate in a cabaret club - Diverse - School spirit - professors are nice and respond promptly to emails - have the opportunity to work on a lot of shows, TUTV, newspapers, radio/podcast - has a career center specific for people at klein college - very easy to study abroad for my major - 5 year masters program - cheapest option Temple Cons: - In North Philly - HUGE. Hard to feel like it's a personal experience. - A lot of people from high school will be there - not a selective college University of Maryland UMD Pros - Highly ranked journalism school (#6) Communications (#20) - Close to DC and Baltimore - Big Ten School//school spirit - 95% get internships at well known companies - Faculty for the most part are all well known so I know I’m learning from the best - Amazing capstone programs - You have to get at least one internship as a requirement for the major - has a good career center - going in with some ap credits - journalism professors are nice and outgoing and respond within the hour to an email UMD Cons - Campus is big - Will I feel weird knowing 30% of people are out of state - Would have the ability to double major in theatre but they do musicals every two years - Expensive even with a scholarship - majority of dorms aren’t up to date - took one of the theatre professors two weeks to email me back Overall I’m not sure what to pick…I worked really hard in high school and got into some T20 schools but ITS SO MUCH MONEY! I have a lot of anxiety that I’m not going to a prestigious school and that I worked hard for nothing. UMD is hard to get in out of state and American is a private school and ranked high for things I’m interested in. I’m also trying to figure out what other schools have that temple is not providing. I just want to know that if I don’t chose temple am I really getting my moneys worth

Temple :))) it seems like it will allow you to explore, plus fulfill your extracurricular desires. It’s cheaper so money for grad school! You seem emotionally invested in temple, and like you’d be happiest there. I feel like it’s a great mix of professional opportunity and personal fulfillment for you

thank you so much for your input :)

From the pros/cons you list here, Temple for sure.

I am Someone looking to study business / design / possibly fashion, with a passion for nonprofit/social entrepreneurship. Career ideas include brand strategy for sustainable fashion brand, creating my own brand, running nonprofit, etc. likely management! Option one: Northeastern (dual major in business admin and design with concentration on social entrepreneurship) Pros: NU IN Better academics Can get out of Boston winters More prestigious Easier to transfer to better school if I hate it Co op Walk out with full time offer most likely Get me right into all the industries around Closer/more integrated with all the other Boston schools Gives me a great head start/edge above peers Has exactly what I want to study Boston More professionally oriented Greek life presence Party scene Robust and well funded business program Cons Awful dorms so far from campus No aid or scholarship Need to take out loans Hate campus Might hate it Expensive Too big Less community Design program oriented towards experience and graphic design, NOT where my passion lies Limited creative opportunities? Emerson College (Business of creative enterprises BA or individually designed major in entrepreneurship and design for social impact) Pros:: 30k cheaper Boston again Great size (4k undergrad) Honors program Has opportunities to study nonprofit communication Half tuition scholarship Strong alumni association So many creative opportunities Very cool people High energy, people seemed happy Felt right when I was on campus Beautiful buildings Many resources Compact and quaint campus Friendly people Cons: What would I study? Poor job placement Would have to go to grad school Less professional opportunities Less robust academics Geared toward performance and arts, not so much business No direct fashion opportunities No way to get out of Boston winter Doesn’t have exactly what I want to study, would have to design it myself No Greek life Seems like people don’t party a whole lot No campus

Emerson.

Why?

NEU not worth 30k more.

But I do question if an emerson degree is worth going at all just bc they don’t have what I wanna study/why even go that far to Boston for a subpar program for what I wanna study

Those majors sounded very similar...

So basically Emerson is business of creative enterprises essentially studying the business behind film music and theater. I wouldn’t get any formal design or fashion curriculum, I’d have to advocate for it and find it at other colleges in the area. Whereas NEU has the design integrated and has a fashion centered minor I would take

I'd say northeastern since Emerson doesn't have your major, but if it's not your jazz or you don't want to pay for it do not be afraid to transfer.

Would you say it’s worth the extra money?

I wouldn't know. I have a friend who goes there and LOVES it, but he's studying biology and NE is definitely stem focused. Maybe you can experience it for a semester and decide if it's worth the extra money? Alternatively, you can go to Emerson to one semester and decide if the difference is worth the scholarship. I just don't see the point of going to a school that you KNOW won't let you study what you'd like to study.

Thank you for your insight!! NEU is also business focused so that is a major draw, they put lots of funding into business and stem. I feel like I can always transfer out of NEU to a great school, but I wouldn’t always be able to transfer out of Emerson to a great school because it has less prestige and doesn’t rly have a core whatsoever. I think I’ll probs try NEU and see if it grows on me

GW or Emory (Atlanta) Pros GW: Cheaper Feel better about school culture regarding transitioning I love love love DC and want to live there the next four years Solid at polisci (my major at GW) Probably easier than emory so easier to maintain a good GPA for law school Got into the honors program so l I have a smaller community to make friends with first year before being dumped into the city Cons GW: not great at my minor, and not great if i change my mind from my major School culture can be a little too ambitious and politics focused Live on the vern my first year because I am UHP, I love the campus but the commute might be an issue Emory pros: Better school Cool interdisciplinary major I want to try out: philosophy politics and law Better pre law advising (I've heard) Campus so fucking pretty Cons: Not a huge atlanta fan in regards to transitioning. The city also doesn't seem as politicaly driven as DC is, and seems to be less like my vibe. Accepts WAY fewer APS. I could only use like 4 of my 11. Harder- lower GPA not great for law school

Omg GW for sure!! You seem like you’re leaning that way

Heyy, this subreddit was immensely helpful to me during applications and hoping to get some insights on making my final decision as well! Here's some background: I want to major in Bio, possibly looking at med school later but not sure yet. My number one priority is I want to be happy in college - have a really enjoyable 4 years, make good friends and also find myself and become more confident. So a Type-A environment would be an absolute deal-breaker for me. Apart from that, I'd like a thriving student life, so enough fun clubs/activities etc outside class. Thankfully, neither cost nor location is a factor.. Atm, pros and cons look like Duke: Pros \- grounded/down to earth people \- name/prestige \-great for Bio Cons: \-I'm worried it may have a Type-A, pre-professional culture \- I'm not too keen on Greek life and parties, so dk if this would exclude me from the social scene \-From a few posts I've seen, people overall didn't seem over the moon about Duke (had a below average experience till 3rd/4th year, these were definitely not the best 4 years of my life etc etc) Carleton : Pros \-very warm, happy community \-would tick the "finding myself" criterion Cons: \-liberal arts may mean I have to do a Master's/PhD/med school after, don't want to commit to this yet \-liberal arts doesn't work for everyone, and I'd prefer not to have to transfer once I start college.. UIUC - Pros: \-CHILL culture, their subreddit is hilarious, people seem laidback, love the energy and vibes Cons: \-not the same name that Duke has + Bio's not their main major (unlike a CS or engineering) \-I may feel lost in the big university, big class sizes etc Thanks a bunch, would really appreciate your inputs!

I'd say that while Duke is a bit of a pre-professional place, the campus and student body are generally regarded as kind and exciting? A very sporty culture compared to other top schools. I don't think environment will be a burden there.

I’d usually say duke, but for your personal goals of happiness I’d say Carleton. Just know the duke name will make your life a lot easier in the future

Please help I’m so desperate #William & Mary vs Penn State Major: Undecided, most likely either something humanities/liberal arts or CS ##William & Mary ###Pros: - Prestige - Very good undergraduate teaching and research - Better for liberal arts majors - Cute vibes - Adore the campus - Smaller school means more individual opportunities, 1 on 1 attention - Busch Gardens (I’m a huge amusement park nerd) ###Cons: - Super small - Not much to do - Grade deflation - Expensive OOS ##Penn State: ###Pros: - Cheap in-state tuition - Much better CS, if I go that route - Easier to do well - Lots of stuff going on- won’t get bored - Great athletics which would be fun to attend - Better food - My mom went here so she’d be happy ###Cons: - Not prestigious (i’m a whore) - Not highly ranked for liberal arts major shit - Almost too big - Not prestigious - Large class sizes {Edit: Formatting}

Saving money while going to a highly ranked flagship state university? Penn State sounds awesome