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Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
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SAT: 720 math
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BU vs UMass Amherst: Need some help deciding

I've been accepted to both Boston University and UMass Amherst and I'm really torn between the two. What should I consider while making my decision in terms of academics, social life, and future opportunities? Any input or personal experiences would be helpful!

a year ago

Congratulations on your acceptances! Both Boston University and UMass Amherst are great schools with their own unique strengths. To help you decide, consider the following factors:

1. Academics: Research the programs in your intended major at each school, and compare the course offerings, faculty, facilities, and research opportunities. If you haven't decided on a major yet, look into the overall reputation and strengths of each school. Boston University tends to be stronger in STEM and pre-professional programs, while UMass Amherst has a highly regarded honors college—Commonwealth Honors College—and strong liberal arts programs.

2. Campus Life: Boston University is located in a bustling city and offers an urban campus experience, with many internship opportunities and city resources available to students. UMass Amherst, on the other hand, is located in a college town with a more traditional, contained campus. Think about your personal preferences and whether you want a city or college town experience.

3. Social Life: UMass Amherst has a larger undergraduate population and is known for its active social life, which includes Greek life, parties, and sporting events. Boston University is a bit more diverse and has a wealth of student organizations, but its urban setting means there's less of a campus "bubble." Reflect on your own social preferences and consider visiting each campus to get a feel for the atmosphere.

4. Cost: Analyze the financial package offered by each school, taking into account tuition, fees, and the cost of living. The difference in cost may be significant, especially since UMass Amherst is a state school for Massachusetts residents.

5. Future Opportunities: Look at each school's career services, alumni network, and job placement statistics. Consider reaching out to students or alumni in your major to get a sense of their experiences with internships, research, and job prospects.

6. Visit: If possible, visit both campuses and attend admitted student events to get a better understanding of the community, resources, and support available. This will also give you a chance to speak with current students and faculty in your major or area of interest.

Ultimately, you'll want to choose the school where you feel most comfortable and where you believe you'll thrive academically and socially. Take the time to weigh the factors that matter to you, and trust your intuition when making your decision. Good luck, and congratulations once again!

a year ago

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