Syracuse University vs Penn State: Which one to choose?

Hi! I've been accepted to both Syracuse University and Penn State, and I'm having trouble deciding between them. I want to study communications and was wondering if anyone could provide some insights into the programs at these schools. What are the pros and cons of each, and which one should I choose given my major?

Hey there! Congratulations on your acceptances. You have two great options to choose from, and both Syracuse and Penn State have solid communications programs. I'll highlight a few key factors for each school:

Syracuse University:

- Pros: The S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse is highly regarded and widely recognized in the industry. They have a strong alumni network and a variety of majors, including advertising, broadcast journalism, and public relations. Syracuse has strong connections with media companies and offers many internship opportunities.

- Cons: Syracuse is a private university, and tuition can be expensive if you don't receive significant financial aid. The weather can be quite cold, and it snows heavily in the winter.

Penn State University:

- Pros: Penn State's Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications has a great faculty and a thriving research program. The school is known for its hands-on opportunities and internships, in particular for students interested in sports journalism. As a large public university, Penn State has a more affordable tuition rate for in-state students.

- Cons: While Penn State is a good communications school, it is not as prestigious as Syracuse's Newhouse School. Additionally, Penn State's campus is in a more rural location, which might limit the number of nearby networking and internship opportunities.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your priorities, and it's essential to consider factors like financial aid, location, campus environment, and the strength of the communications program. From a pure program reputation standpoint, you would likely have more opportunities at Syracuse's Newhouse School; however, you should consider factors like cost and your personal preferences. It might be helpful to visit both campuses if you have the opportunity to do so, speak to current students or alumni, and gather more information. Good luck with your choice!