Seeking Opinions on East Coast Universities

I'm a Cali kid but I've always been attracted to the idea of studying on the East Coast. Can anyone shed some light on what it's like to attend university there? What's the culture like and how are the opportunities compared to the west coast?

Responding as a current college student on the East Coast, I'd say the comparison between East and West depends on the specific university and city you're considering. Overall, there's a lot of diversity across East Coast schools, from the buzz of New York City-based universities to small liberal arts colleges offering close-knit communities in rural New England.

Culture-wise, some East Coast universities are known for having a more traditional ambiance with a strong emphasis on history and tradition. However, this varies greatly by institution. Schools in bigger cities like New York, Boston, or Philadelphia will undoubtedly offer a different feel than those in smaller towns. University culture is also significantly determined by the student body itself, so I'd recommend looking at the students’ activities and clubs, which usually give a good insight into what a school values.

Opportunities are also ample, but they may be slightly different from what you might find on the West Coast. For instance, several East Coast cities are world-renowned hubs for finance, politics, law, and media, meaning internships and jobs in these fields may be more plentiful. On the other hand, the West Coast, particularly California, is often associated with opportunities in technology, entertainment, and environmental science. Remember, though, many students secure internships and jobs in different parts of the country regardless of where they're studying, so don't feel confined to your university's geographic location.

Lastly, consider what you want from your college experience in terms of weather. The East Coast does experience a lot more seasonal variation than California. If you're someone who enjoys seeing all four seasons, including a distinct fall and winter, studying on the East Coast could provide a refreshing change.

I hope this gives you some helpful insight. I'd recommend researching and visiting specific universities that interest you—there's no substitute for getting a feel of the campus, talking to students, and seeing first-hand what life is like at different East Coast universities!