Pitt vs Northwestern: Help me decide?

I got accepted to both the University of Pittsburgh and Northwestern University! I'm kinda undecided about which one to choose. What are the major differences between these two schools in terms of academics, size, culture, and location? Any advice would be awesome!

Congratulations on your acceptances to both Pitt and Northwestern! I'll provide you with a brief comparison of these schools to help with your decision.

Academics: Northwestern is a highly-ranked private research university and well-known for its strong programs in journalism, engineering, and theater, among others. The faculty are distinguished, and the academic environment tends to be more competitive. On the other hand, Pitt is a public research university with highly-regarded programs in health sciences, engineering, and business. While the academics are strong, the atmosphere is generally more relaxed compared to Northwestern.

Size: Northwestern has around 8,000 undergraduate students, which provides a small to mid-sized school feel, thus offering more individualized attention. The University of Pittsburgh is larger with approximately 19,000 undergraduate students, so it will have a bigger campus and larger class sizes, especially in general education courses.

Culture: Northwestern students are often described as ambitious, and the campus has a reputation for being more academically competitive. On the other hand, Pitt students usually have a balance between academics and having a well-rounded college experience. Greek life plays a notable role on both campuses, but it's ultimately up to you to decide whether to engage in it.

Location: Northwestern is located in Evanston, a beautiful suburb of Chicago, providing easy access to the city for internships and cultural experiences. The campus is adjacent to Lake Michigan, adding a scenic touch to the university's architecture. Pitt's campus is urban, situated in the Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh. It's close to various cultural institutions and has a diverse, energetic atmosphere. Both cities have strong job markets and various cultural and entertainment options, although Chicago might provide more significant opportunities due to its size.

Keep in mind that visiting both campuses, if possible, might help you decide which environment you prefer. Consider factors like financial aid, available resources, and your academic and personal preferences as well. Trust your instincts, and choose the school that aligns better with your goals and values. Good luck with your decision!