Penn State vs University of Delaware

Hey everyone! I'm currently deciding between attending Penn State and the University of Delaware. Can anyone share their personal experiences or knowledge about the campus life, academics, and overall atmosphere of these two schools? I'd love any advice to help me make the best decision for which college to enroll in!

Hi! I'm glad you're considering both Penn State and the University of Delaware. Comparing campus life, academics, and overall atmosphere can be instrumental in helping you make a well-informed decision. I'll give you an overview of each aspect for both universities:

Campus Life:

Penn State: With around 42,000 undergraduate students, Penn State has a vibrant campus life. The large size means there are numerous clubs, organizations, and sports teams you can join to stay engaged. State College, where the campus is situated, has a quintessential college town feel, providing local shops, restaurants, and events.

University of Delaware: With approximately 19,000 undergraduate students, the University of Delaware may provide a more close-knit community feel, although still quite large. The smaller size still allows for a variety of extracurricular activities, and the historic Main Street in Newark offers food, shopping, and entertainment options within walking distance.

Academics:

Penn State: Penn State is well-known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and agricultural sciences. If you're interested in research, the university has several research facilities and opportunities for undergraduates to get involved.

University of Delaware: UD is recognized for its programs in chemical engineering, business, and education. Like Penn State, there are also ample research opportunities available for undergraduates.

Overall Atmosphere:

Penn State: The school spirit at Penn State is absolutely electric, especially during football season. The Nittany Lions have a dedicated fan base, and the campus energy is often described as friendly and welcoming.

University of Delaware: At UD, the atmosphere is similarly enthusiastic, particularly around its Blue Hens sports teams. The smaller campus size may lead to a deeper sense of community, and many students describe the overall vibe as inclusive and supportive.

Ultimately, your decision should be based on the aspects that matter most to you, such as your academic interests, the size of the campus, surrounding community, and social opportunities. Visiting both campuses, if possible, could also help you get a better understanding of the general atmosphere at each university. Good luck with your decision!