UW Madison vs Ohio State: Which one would you pick?

I'm trying to decide between attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW Madison) and Ohio State University (OSU). Could anyone give me some advice based on their experiences or knowledge about academics, campus culture, and overall opportunities at these two schools? Thanks!

Hey there! I can give you a general overview to help you compare both universities:

Academics:

Both UW Madison and OSU are highly ranked public universities with strong academic programs in various fields. However, UW Madison has a slight edge when it comes to research and overall academic reputation, but the specific strengths vary by program. You should identify the major or area of study you're interested in and investigate the corresponding program at each university.

Campus culture:

UW Madison is known for a lively campus atmosphere with a strong sense of school spirit and pride, as well as a thriving social scene. The picturesque setting on the shores of Lake Mendota in Madison adds to the overall experience. Ohio State also has strong school spirit and a robust social scene but has a more urban campus in Columbus, which is a larger city than Madison. Both have strong Greek life presences and sports cultures, although I would say OSU's school spirit (especially around football) is probably bigger than UW's.

Opportunities:

Both schools offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, sports, and opportunities for students to get involved. UW Madison is well-known for their study abroad programs and high research activity, offering many research and internship opportunities across different fields. OSU provides a sizable alumni network, and Columbus has a more significant corporate presence which can lead to ample opportunities for networking and internships as well. It's worth considering your goals and how each school's resources align with those.

Keep in mind that your personal fit and happiness are essential factors in your decision, so, if possible, visit both campuses and speak with current students and/or graduates. Good luck with your decision!