ASU vs SU: Can't decide, please help!

Hi everyone! I'm super torn between Arizona State University and Syracuse University. What are the main distinctions between these two schools in terms of academics, student life, and overall experiences? Any feedback from current students or alumni would be greatly appreciated! Thanks a lot!

Hi there! Congrats on getting accepted into both Arizona State University (ASU) and Syracuse University (SU). I can provide you with some general comparisons to help you make your decision:

1. Academics:

ASU: ASU offers a broad range of undergraduate programs and is known for its research focus. Some of their top programs include business, engineering, and sustainability. With a higher overall student population, classes tend to be large, especially in lower-level courses.

SU: Syracuse has a smaller student population than ASU, which may lead to smaller class sizes and more opportunities for personal connections with faculty. Some of SU's top programs include communication, architecture, and journalism.

2. Student life:

ASU: ASU has multiple campuses throughout the Phoenix area, with the largest being the Tempe campus. The school has a lively social scene and a strong emphasis on sports teams, especially football and basketball. Greek life is also present on campus.

SU: Syracuse is an urban campus located in upstate New York. It experiences cold winters due to its location, which might be a significant factor for you. Like ASU, Syracuse has a strong sports culture – especially basketball – and boasts an active Greek life scene. The campus is compact, making it easy for students to navigate between their classes.

3. Location & climate:

ASU: ASU's location in the Southwest means hot, dry weather for much of the year. This is a considerable contrast to Syracuse's climate and might be a deciding factor depending on your weather preferences. ASU's campuses are situated near Phoenix, offering access to a major urban center.

SU: The weather in Syracuse can feature cold and snowy winters, while summers are generally warm and pleasant. It's important to consider whether you're okay with this kind of climate when making your decision. Syracuse is a smaller city, but it's still filled with arts, culture, and entertainment opportunities.

4. Cost & financial aid:

Compare the financial aid packages you've received from both schools, as this may be a major deciding factor. Also, consider the cost of living in each area. Arizona tends to have a lower overall cost of living compared to New York.

Ultimately, your choice will depend on your academic and social priorities, as well as your personal preferences for location, climate, and opportunities. Consider visiting both campuses, if possible, to get a feel for the environment. Good luck with your decision!