Penn State vs UMass: Which one should I choose?

Hello everybody! I'm making a decision between Penn State University and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Can anyone tell me about the differences in academics, social scene, and available opportunities between these two schools? I really want to make the best choice for my future. Thanks in advance!

Hi there! Both Penn State and UMass Amherst are excellent institutions with unique offerings, so it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you when making a decision.

Academics: Penn State is known for its strong engineering, business, and agricultural programs, while UMass Amherst boasts notable programs in computer science, natural sciences, and public health. Both schools have a wide range of other strong majors and classes, though, so you should also take a look at the specific departments you're interested in and compare their course offerings, faculty, and resources.

Social Scene: In terms of social scene, Penn State is well-known for its Greek life, large athletic events, and school spirit. UMass Amherst has a more diverse social scene, with Greek life present but not as dominant. UMass Amherst is also part of the Five College Consortium, which allows you to take classes, attend events, and meet students from other nearby colleges (Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith Colleges). Being part of this consortium adds to the breadth of social and academic opportunities available.

Opportunities: When considering available opportunities, take into account factors like extracurriculars, research, and internships. Both schools offer undergraduate research opportunities, so examine the departments you're interested in to see which has more resources and projects aligned with your interests. Additionally, Penn State has a larger alumni network and may offer more internship opportunities in specific industries. UMass Amherst, on the other hand, has the advantage of being closer to major cities like Boston and New York, which can provide better access to various job and internship opportunities in those areas.

In conclusion, your decision will largely depend on your personal priorities and preferences. Consider the factors discussed above and how they align with your academic, social, and professional goals. Take time to visit the campuses if possible and talk with current students to get a firsthand feel for each school's culture. Good luck with your decision!